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Great Ocean Road 1-Day Itinerary: The Ultimate GOR Day Trip

The Great Ocean Road (GOR) is a 243km stretch of winding coastal drive along Victoria’s southeastern coast, between the beautiful Torquay and Warrnambool . Because of the spectacular coastal views along the Great Ocean Road, a GOR road trip has become one of the most popular Australian road trips .

Since Torquay is relatively close to Melbourne , a trip to the Great Ocean Road is typically on the bucket list of most visitors to Melbourne.

Great Ocean Road is better visited as a 3-day road trip from Melbourne , so you can fully appreciate the beauty of the GOR drive without rushing through each attraction. However, you can also visit the Great Ocean Road on a day trip from Melbourne .

Although a great deal of driving is involved on a Great Ocean Road day trip, you can still visit most of Great Ocean Road’s popular landmarks on a day trip, providing you have a compact and practical itinerary.

To help you navigate, I have put together a day trip itinerary for visiting the Great Ocean Road. Information on estimated driving time, time to spend for each attraction, and useful tips are also provided for your convenience. Hope you can find this itinerary useful.

The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Day Trip Itinerary

Since the drive along the Great Ocean Road takes almost 4 hours to complete , to make the most out of your Great Ocean Road day trip, you will need to start the trip early & plan your stops well .

For the best weather and longer daylight hours, you may also wish to plan your GOR day trip during the daylight-saving months . If you can only visit the Great Ocean Road during those colder months, you may need to skip certain attractions from this itinerary to may it more practical.

Bells Beach

Bells Beach is located in Torquay, at the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road. It is about a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne.

Bells Beach is internationally renowned for its legendary surf breaks & is the host to the annual Rip Curl Pro event – the longest-running pro surfing competition.

Although you won’t have the chance to enjoy a surf along Bells Beach on this GOR day trip, make sure you take a break at Bells Beach to appreciate this stunning beach and the wild ocean swells along the coast.

Public toilets are also available near Bells Beach carpark, which can come in handy after your long drive from Melbourne.

Split Point Lighthouse

After Bells Beach, we will drive another 25 minutes along the GOR to visit the picturesque Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet. Along this drive, you would have also sighted this stunning ivory white lighthouse from afar.

Just beneath Split Point Lighthouse, you can also find a few lookout platforms offering a spectacular view of the ‘shipwreck coast’. With the beautiful lighthouse in the background, the coastline at Aireys Inlet looks even more remarkable.

A cafe can also be found next to the Split Point Lighthouse if you wish to grab a coffee and a quick bite before continuing with the day.

Apollo Bay is a charming fishing village nestled at the foothills of the Great Otway National Park & about mid-way along the Great Ocean Road . It offers a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, which is great for swimming and surfing.

Apollo Bay is also famous for its amazing seafood & makes the perfect spot for a lunch break along your Great Ocean Road drive. Make sure you check out the famous scallop pies from Apollo Bay Bakery and/or the freshly cooked Southern Rock Lobsters from Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op when driving by Apollo Bay.

If time allows, you may wish to also check out Marriner’s Lookout for a wonderful bird’s eye view of Apollo Bay and beyond. Alternatively, a visit to Maits Rest Rainforest Walk in the Great Otway National Park is great for getting a glimpse into the diverse landscape of the Great Otway National Park.

Gibson Steps

Gibson Steps is a set of 86 narrow steps carved on a 70-metre tall vertical cliff. It offers access from the clifftop to the pristine Gibson Steps Beach.

From the clifftop viewing platform, visitors can obtain a magnificent view of the rugged coastline along the GOR. However, I highly suggest a visit to the beachfront where possible.

From Gibson Steps Beach, you will have a better insight into how steep & grand this limestone cliff is. Make sure you also take your shoes off & have a feel of the soft white sand along this pristine beach.

In my opinion, the area between Gibson Steps and the Bay of Islands is the highlight of the Great Ocean Road drive . Make sure you plan enough time to cover this section of the Great Ocean Road. If needed, you may wish to head to the Gibson Steps directly from Melbourne via the inland drive to save some driving time (skip Bells Beach, Aireys Inlet, and Apollo Bay).

When visiting Gibson Steps, you will need to plan for at least 30 minutes if you wish to head down to Gibson Steps Beach.

12 Apostles

12 Apostles is the most well-known landmark along the Great Ocean Road. The viewing platform for the 12 Apostles is only a short drive from Gibson Steps & offers a captivating view of this rugged coastline and an impressive cluster of limestone stacks, the 12 Apostles.

Although named the 12 Apostles, there have only ever been 8 limestone stacks at this site. Because of continuous erosion, one of the 8 stacks have eventually fallen into rubbles in 2005, leaving only 7 apostles remaining .

The sight of the 12 Apostles was certainly remarkable, but I was underwhelmed to some degree. Since the 12 Apostles is the postcard child of the Great Ocean Road, I was expecting a more extraordinary view in comparison to other spots along the GOR.

However, since the 12 Apostles is one of the most iconic landmarks along the GOR, I think you are still better off visiting it. You may end up finding this spot more impressive than I did.

12 Apostles also offers one of the best visitor centres/amenities along the Great Ocean Road. Here, you can find a huge visitor car park , well-equipped public toilets , and a kiosk for visitors to grab something to eat and drink from.

Loch Ard Gorge

Loch Ard Gorge is only a 5-minute drive down the road from the 12 Apostles. It is named after the most famous shipwreck along this wild coast, the Loch Ard, which crashed into nearby Muttonbird Island in 1878 and perished 52 lives.

The coastline along Loch Ard Gorge is formed by tall vertical cliffs and dotted with various limestone stacks. There are various walking tracks around Loch Ard Gorge for visitors to admire the incredible Loch Ard Gorge, Island Archway (Tom & Eva), The Razorback, and Muttonbird Island. However, during this day trip, you will likely not have time to visit them all.

My suggestion is to park at Loch Ard Gorge Carpark to visit Loch Ard Gorge, Loch Ard Wreck Lookout, The Island Archway Lookout, and The Razorback Lookout. These lookouts offer the best views around Loch Ard Gorge, with the least amount of walk involved. It should take around 1 hour to complete all these walks, depending on fitness level.

If you can manage to spare more time around this area, you may wish to also check out Thunder Cave and Muttonbird Lookout during your visit. However, these do require more time to be visited.

Another thing to note is that there is no toilets or kiosk at Loch Ard Gorge. Therefore, make sure you take the most out of your visit to the 12 Apostles before heading off to Loch Ard Gorge.

London Bridge (London Arch)

London Bridge, aka London Arch, is a natural archway along the Great Ocean Road near Port Campbell. It used to be a double-arch limestone stack before the arch closer to the shoreline collapsed in 1990. Nowadays, the London Bridge has become an offshore rock stack, which is no longer accessible by visitors.

However, the views from London Bridge Lookout are simply spectacular. Make sure you take a stop to admire the wild coastline and incredible rock formations at London Bridge when driving by.

The Grotto is one of my favourite spots along the Great Ocean Road. It is a beautiful cave formation & a great spot for admiring nature’s work of art through a limestone archway and a rock pool.

The Grotto is a picturesque sinkhole cave near Port Campbell. From the bottom of the sinkhole, visitors can obtain a surreal view of the wild ocean beyond a tranquil rock pool, with a beautiful reflection of the rocky limestone archway. The serenity The Grotto offers makes it feel like a scene from a fairytale.

Access to The Grotto’s upper lookout platform is via a relative flat walkway from the carpark. From the upper viewing platform, you can capture a spectacular view of the Grotto & the surrounding rugged coastline. From the upper lookout platform, there is a set of wooden staircases to the bottom of The Grotto for visitors to appreciate this magnificent view up close.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is only a further 10-minute drive west of The Grotto along the Great Ocean Road. Unless you have skipped the first 3 stops (Bells Beach, Aireys Inlet & Apollo Bay) from this day trip itinerary, you are likely not going to have adequate time for visiting the Bay of Islands.

Each to their own, I personally would choose to visit the Bay of Islands over the attractions between Torquay and Apollo Bay. However, you may choose differently. If you have decided to visit the Bay of Islands, make sure you take the inland drive from Melbourne to Gibson Steps directly to save some driving time .

Bay of Islands is a 32km stretch of coastal reserve between Peterborough and Warrnambool. It offers a pristine coastline with endless rock stacks dotted along the coast . It is a great place to appreciate the impressive rock formations and the breathtaking Southern Ocean along the Great Ocean Road.

There are multiple viewing platforms and access points to the Bay of Islands. Among them, I found the area between the Bay of Martyrs and the Bay of Island Beach to be the most gorgeous and easily accessible section of the Bay of Islands.

There is a lot to see and discover around the Bay of Islands. If you are planning to visit the Bay of Martyrs and the Bay of Island Beach, you will need to plan at least 60 minutes to explore this spot .

Alternatives to a Self-Drive Day Trip to the Great Ocean Road

Guided bus tour.

Although a self-drive road trip provides more flexibility , it can also be extremely tiring , especially if you are planning to cover all the important Great Ocean Road landmarks in one day. In addition, the drive along the Great Ocean Road can be very winding , which may not be suited to drivers unfamiliar with the road.

Hence, a guided bus tour can come in handy for many visitors to the Great Ocean Road. The tour guides can also provide you with better insights into each landmark.

Multi-Day Road Trip

Another alternative to a Great Ocean Road day trip is to split it up & make it a 2-day trip or even a 3-day trip .

By doing so, you get to explore a lot more landmarks along the Great Ocean Road. You will also have more time to spare at each attraction. By splitting the driving time over 2 to 3 days, you will feel less fatigued as well.

Where to Stay along the Great Ocean Road

There are various coastal towns along the Great Ocean Road. It can be a difficult task to choose the ideal location for an overnight stay along the Great Ocean Road. From my experience:

Tips on Visiting the Great Ocean Road on a Day Trip

• Get up early & leave Melbourne by 7 am to allow adequate time for exploring the Great Ocean Road.
• Visit during the daylight saving months to allow more daylight hours for exploring the Great Ocean Road.
• Check sunset times when planning your Great Ocean Road day trip to avoid driving in the dark.
• Avoid driving in the dark on country roads . Wildlife, such as kangaroos, tend to be more active from dusk to dawn. Encounters with wildlife on the road can be fatal to both the wildlife and the passengers.
• Plan your trip ahead of time & try not to do random stops along the drive. When you first started this road trip, you will be very tempted to stop at many of the amazing spots along the drive. However, there are a lot more wonderful landmarks around the Port Campbell area, which you will likely miss out on if you don’t stick to your schedule.
• Top up your tank before embarking on your Great Ocean Road road trip. There are many petrol stations along the Great Ocean Road. However, to minimise the hassles of looking for a petrol station, filling up the tank before the road trip can be a great idea.
• For driving safety, travel with at least one companion to share the driving task if possible.

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1 Day Great Ocean Road Tour & 12 Apostles Tour

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1 Day Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Tour

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most visited stretches of coastline, boasting an incredible amount of natural landmarks and magnificent sights. This tour will take you to some of the best stops en route and past breathtaking ocean views. You’ll have the chance to stroll along pristine beaches as well as learn more about the natural history of the region. In the afternoon, you'll arrive on the Shipwreck Coast where you can admire the iconic 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and more from spectacular coastal lookout points. 

Operates: Daily

Departs: 7:00am

Returns: Approx. 8:00pm to 8:30pm

Adult from: $109

Child from: $89

Child fares are available for children aged 3 - 15 years. Sorry, we don't carry children under the age of 3 years on this tour.

Unfortunately we are unable to take wheelchairs or strollers on this tour.

1 Day Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Tour Itinerary

After we depart the city, we’ll head straight for the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road to begin our journey along this spectacular coastal drive. We’ll stop for some morning tea where you can relax and enjoy the scenery before we head off to the Memorial Arch. Here, you can snap some photos at one of the route’s most iconic landmarks.

Lunch is in the beachside town of Apollo Bay, where you can tuck into local fare and refuel for an afternoon of incredible sightseeing. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy 20-minute guided bush walk to the Cascades of Melba Gully.

When all have returned we then head on to the 12 Apostles, one of Australia’s most famous landmarks. These limestone stacks form an incredible backdrop to the sea views, so be sure to bring your camera along.

Afterwards, we’ll move on to Loch Ard Gorge, which is shrouded by impressive limestone cliffs. We’ll take a walk here and check out the local attractions, including the Archway, the Razorback, and Dumpling Pots. You’ll also get to learn about Australia’s most famous shipwreck while you’re here.

Finally, we’ll make our way back to Melbourne via the road inland, travelling through a number of country towns along the way. 

Please note: during peak periods this tour may operate in reverse. 

Keep in mind that this popular area is big and therefore the tour involves quite a lot of driving. This is just because we really want to show you the best bits of the beautiful Great Ocean Road! We have packed the day with lots of amazing stops, which means it’s going to be a long, but awesome day.

• Morning tea
• All park entrance fees
• Wildlife viewing
• Air-conditioned transport
• Melbourne CBD or St Kilda pick-up/drop-off
• Friendly & informative tour guide

351 reviews for 1 Day Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Tour

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Attractions in Melbourne

• Ballarat & Goldfields
• Bay of Islands
• Churchill Island
• Gibson Steps
• Great Otway National Park
• Kennett River
• Loch Ard Gorge
• London Bridge
• Maru Wildlife Park
• Melbourne City
• Memorial Arch
• Mornington Peninsula
• Mount Buller
• Phillip Island
• Phillip Island Wildlife Park
• Port Campbell National Park
• Shipwreck Coast
• Sovereign Hill
• Summerland Beach
• The 12 Apostles
• The Dandenong Ranges and Puffing Billy
• The Grampians
• The Great Ocean Road
• The Nobbies
• The Penguin Parade
• Urquhart Bluff
• Victorian High Country
• Woolamai Surf Beach
• Yarra Valley

Things to Do near Melbourne

• Great Ocean Road Tours
• Phillip Island Tours
• Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Tours
• Ballarat & Goldfields Tours
• Mornington Peninsula Tours
• Grampians Tours

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1 Day Great Ocean Road Tour

The Great Ocean Road Tour offers a guided scenic drive along Australia’s stunning coastline , showcasing breathtaking ocean views and ancient rainforests . Our group day tour includes visiting the iconic rock formations known as the 12 Apostles . Explore the stunning Loch Ard Gorge and marvel at the views from all the best lookouts within the Port Campbell National Park . Wander through seaside towns such as Apollo Bay and have time to explore other beautiful beaches and walks.

• Visit the historic Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch
• Surf Coast beaches , seaside towns, and stunning coastal views
• Spot Australian wildlife along the the Great Ocean Road
• Enjoy lunch in the seaside town of Apollo Bay
• Rainforest walk through the  Great Otway National Park
• Loch Ard Gorge and the Shipwreck Coast Port Campbell National Park
• The world-famous Twelve Apostles Port Campbell National Park
• If time permits, we visit the Razorback, Island Archway, Salt & Pepper Shakers formations

Trip Inclusions

• All National Park entry fees
• Australian flora and fauna sightings
• A professional & friendly driver/guide
• Local informative tour commentary
• Comfortable coach transportation service
• Select inner-city pick-up & drop-off locations

Google & TripAdvisor Reviews

Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary

The Great Ocean Road is Victoria’s famous must-do road trip. One day we will show you the beauty of this coastal drive and take you through pristine beaches, fresh rainforest and rugged limestone rock formations.

Be wowed by the 12 Apostles – these iconic rock formations lie just off the shore of Port Campbell National Park in  Victoria . Get lost in the beauty of this natural scenery and allow our guides to regale you with the stories and history that shapes this epic coastline.

Depart Melbourne

Once we have left Melbourne, we head down to the  Surf Coast,  passing through gorgeous seaside townships such as  Anglesea ,  Lorne  and  Airey’s Inlet . We stop for some morning tea and breathe in the fresh sea air while spotting surfers out on the water. The proximity to Antarctica means you will learn why everyone wears a wet suit once you dip your toes into the water.

Visit the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch

Stop at the Great Ocean Road monument, which marks the original starting point of the Great Ocean Road. After some photos at the iconic  Memorial Arch  and a lesson on the history of the soldiers who built this road and dedicated it to their fallen comrades, we will wind through more stunning views (of course, stopping for pictures!)

Search for Australian flora and fauna

Along the journey, we will make stops to look for Koalas and other Australian wildlife on the Great Ocean Road , hanging out in the wild. As they are wild, we cannot guarantee where they will appear, but our knowledgeable guides know all the best spots to get out into the bush and spot them sleeping!

Stop to Enjoy Lunch in Apollo Bay

A welcome lunch break is taken in  Apollo Bay   (approximately 45 minutes – at guests’ own expense).  Once you have  explored Apollo Bay , grabbed any souvenirs you wish to buy, or tasted some delicious ice cream, you are back on the bus to the Great Otway National Park inland.

Rainforest walk in the Great Otway National Park

Still on the Great Ocean Road but continues into the lush green hills of the Great Otway National Park . Drive past towering  Eucalyptus trees until we arrive at a  Cool, Temperate Rainforest patch . You will be amazed at the difference in the scenery as we take a walk through the tree ferns and marvel at the ‘ancient relics’  Myrtle Beach trees . These provide perfect canopy shade and originate from when Australia was part of a supercontinent known as  Gondwanaland . Breathe in the fresh air before we take a relaxing drive to the dramatic Shipwreck Coast !

The Twelve Apostles

Once out of the trees and back by the  Southern Ocean,  we arrive in  Port Campbell National Park , home to the iconic  12 Apostles . We will spend about 40 minutes at the  Apostles,  where you will enjoy free time to take in the views from every angle, walk along the boardwalks, and get the perfect pictures of this wild and rugged coastline.

Loch Ard Gorge and the Shipwreck Coast

Also, in the  National Park,  we head down to  Loch Ard Gorge , the site of one of Australia’s most well-known shipwrecks, hear the dramatic tale of Tom and Eva and then head down to the beach to look for the caves. You will also find rock formations such as the Island Archway ,  Razorback , and the ‘ Salt and Pepper Shakers .

Returns to Melbourne

After a full day of exploring, we say goodbye to the Great Ocean Road and turn back inland to drive back to Melbourne via country roads. We pass through farmlands en route to the country town of Colac. Here, you can grab a quick bite for dinner (at the guests’ expense) if you wish, as we will return home in Melbourne at approximately 8:30 pm.

Pick-up Locations & TImes

Our central meeting point for this tour will be the Immigration Museum (east-side), 400 Flinders St, corner of Market St, Melbourne @ 7:35AM.

• 6:55 - Pegasus Apartments Hotel - 206 A’Beckett St, Melbourne
• 7:00 - Melbourne Marriott Hotel - Cnr Exhibition St Lonsdale St, Melbourne
• 7:05 - Space Hotel - 380 Russell St, Melbourne
• 7:10 - Grand Hyatt Melbourne - Russell St entrance, Melbourne
• 7:20 - Adina Apartment Hotel - 189 Queen St, Melbourne
• 7:25 -The Savoy Hotel – 630 Little Collins St, Melbourne
• 7:35 - Immigration Museum (east-side), 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne
• 7:40 - Crown Towers - 8 Whiteman St Queens Bridge St, Southbank

Great Ocean Road and Rainforest 1 Day Tour:  $150 Adult (13+), $120 Child (0 to 12)

If you’re keen on travelling to the Great Ocean Road on a private tour with just your friends or family we can help take you there. You can create your own tailor-made Melbourne trip or follow our itinerary. Contact our charters team for more information on [email protected].

What you need to bring?

• Water bottle
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm and cool clothing
• Rain jacket
• A sense of adventure

How long does it take to drive the Great Ocean Road?

Starting from Melbourne, a trip to the Great Ocean Road is a 664 km return. Travelling via Torquay ,  Apollo Bay,  and  Port Fairy  and returning to Melbourne takes 9.5 hours to drive . The Great Ocean Road has two main starting points when travelling from Melbourne . You can turn onto the Great Ocean Road from either  Torquay  or  Anglesea . Our  1-day Great Ocean Road tours turn onto Great Ocean Road at Anglesea. From here, the Great Ocean Road hugs the coastline and goes to Apollo Bay. Our tours travel to the 12 Apostles before returning to Melbourne. This journey is a 504 km return to Melbourne , which takes 7hrs hours to drive. We spend 12 hours along the Great Ocean Road, enjoying many beautiful locations and stopping to explore.

Where does the Great Ocean Road start and end?

The Great Ocean Road starts from Torquay,  104km south of Melbourne . The Great Ocean Road ends  244 km  later in Allansford. However, we recommend you travel through to  Warrnambool  to visit the largest city along the  Great Ocean Road .

Can you do the Great Ocean Road in one day?

Yes, we specialise in offering one-day trips to the Great Ocean Road, helping travellers maximise their time in Melbourne. Between April and October, hiring a car for a one-day trip to the Great Ocean Road is not recommended . This region can experience high winds and severe rainstorms. You have limited daylight and will be returning to Melbourne in the dark on less maintained roads. From Melbourne, a Great Ocean Road day trip in a hire car is a tiring journey with approximately 7hrs of driving. We highly recommend joining a great ocean road tour and letting our experienced tour drivers ensure a fantastic day from start to finish.

How long should you take to do the Great Ocean Road?

664 km/413 miles , about  9.5 hours One of Victoria’s most scenic roads, the  Great Ocean Road is a fantastic 1-day bus tour from the capital of Melbourne  to the iconic  12 Apostles.

What is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road?

The best time to visit the Great Ocean Road depends largely on what activities you plan on doing. For those who prefer warmer weather, September to April is the best time of year to visit. This period offers mostly sunny days and temperatures ranging from 16-25°C (60-77°F). During this period, you can take advantage of activities such as swimming at the beach or surfing in the ocean.

How hard is the Great Ocean Road Walk?

The  Great Ocean Walk  has a difficulty rating of “ moderate ” to “ challenging .” It means there will be short, steep climbs and uneven, bumpy trails. A relatively  energetic lifestyle  and some walking experience are recommended.

How long is the 12 Apostles walk?

At just over  100 kilometres , it combines Australia’s tallest coastal cliffs, the remains of various historic shipwrecks, and vast stretches of uninhabited beaches. A  walk along this route can perhaps bring a new twist at every turn .

Do you need a 4WD for Great Ocean Road?

You don’t need a 4WD drive  to travel the Great Ocean Road  to choose the cheapest rental car, and it will be just fine! If you’re travelling alone, with two people, or you don’t like the idea of planning your trip on the Great Ocean Road , you’re better off choosing a tour .

Is the Great Ocean Road worth it?

For most visitors to Melbourne, a tour-guided trip to the Great Ocean Road is a must. Like many other Australian cities, it’s always worth taking a car or bus tour and travelling outside the city.

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30 thoughts on “1 day great ocean road tour”.

My friend and I did this tour on our second day in Australia (both in our late 20s). We both had such a fantastic day and were lucky that the sunshine came out for us as well during the day. We had Tim (with long hair – there were two Tims!) as our guide and we couldn’t have asked for better. Such a friendly and knowledgeable guy, absolutely loved his stories and facts throughout the day and how his playlist linked in with the information he was telling us. I felt so lucky to see wild koalas in Lorne ( we weren’t successful in seeing any in Noosa or Magnetic Island later on during our travels so felt even luckier we had managed to see them on this trip and so early on!). Loved the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, had famous Dooleys ice cream in Apollo Bay…. we fit so much into the day, it was very worthwhile. Of course like with any daytrip /tour, I wish we could have had slightly more time in each place and to have seen even more sights rather than having to pick and choose here and there because of time constraints. Overall so happy that we decided to do this tour!

We have been in Melbourne for just 3 days . So We have chosen the 1 day Great Ocean Road and it was absolutely amazing. Had fun at Cape Patton and enjoyed the beautiful great ocean rod cost and the ‘12 Apostles’. Had a great experience with our couch tour operator. Our guide John was absolutely funny, responsible and prepared for it. Thanks for everything.

Excellent tour. Duane the driver/guide very well planned and well informed. He organised the day well, commencing with a welcome coffee break. There was a good choice of photo stops along the Great Ocean Road. Apollo Bay was a good place to have lunch followed by a delicious Chocolate Ice Cream at the Award winners local outlet. We enjoyed the Rainforest and had some fantastic walks at the coast as we made our way along to the Twelve Apostles. It was a beautiful sunny day so conditions were ideal for this tour. Although there was a lot to see we never felt rushed. There was also plenty of cool water on hand. It was a memorable day out. Thanks to Duane for being an excellent Guide and- Yes- I will remember: Melbourne is the greatest City in the World!!”

My two friends and I did the one day tour of the Great Ocean Road with Tim as our guide. He was awesome! We loved his music playlist on the bus – made the trip much more enjoyable! We stopped at beautiful places and got to see wild koalas and parrots. Definitely recommend this tour!

My friends and I did the reverse great ocean road with Daniel as our guide, and had the BEST time! Daniel is an awesome host and guide, if you’re lucky enough to get on his bus you’ll be in for an amazing day! We also did the optional helicopter tour which was a great way to see the “12” Apostles.

The day trip to Great Ocean Road starts early in the morning and takes 12 hours long (the whole day). Is good to wear comfortable clothes, shoes and bring a bottle of water with you.

It is a small group, no more than 20 people, and during our way, we stopped to see some wild Aussie animals as cockatoos, koalas, kangaroos.

We had lunch in Apolo Bay in a small restaurant and our guide suggested to try the famous local ice cream at Dooley`s (delicious).

We stopped to do small hiking (40 minutes) at the Rain Forest and then, we continued by car until the Twelve Apostles Lookout. The view is unbelievable and the sunset is breathtaking. We also visited some places around where is possible to go to the beaches and see the huge stones which are part of The Twelve Apostles, as well.

Our guide, Guy, is an amazing and kind person and he knows everything about the place.

It was a happy and unforgettable day. I strongly recommend it!

Seriously the Great Ocean Road should be renamed The Amazing Ocean Road!! What a journey this is full of coastal wonders, Koala encounters and the breath taking 12 Apostles. I completely recommend this tour… brilliant day!

I must commend Simon on such a brilliant tour of the Great Ocean Road. His guidance and entertaining commentary as we travelled further brought to life an already breath taking journey. Cheers Wildlife Tours

We chose this tour for its great reviews and great price and we were not disappointed. Thank you to Wildlife Tours for an amazing trip

Had an amazing 1-day Great Ocean Road- trip, with a great itenirary and fun tour-guide! We were super happy with the whole day 🙂

Amazing tour way beyond my expectations. Id like to thank Darren our tour guide. his knowledge took this Great Ocean Road Tour to another level

I joined this great ocean road day tour over the new year period and was blown away by the service and knowledge of our tour guide Brad. Really enjoyed this incredible region. Highly recommend this tour

We loved this great ocean road tour so much. Seeing Koalas in the wild and a stunning rainforest walk were surprising highlights of this beautiful tour. Great value for money I will recommend to all my friends and family.

Thank you for such a wonderful experience. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed Tim’s commentary and guidance throughout our tour. Strongly recommend.

We didn’t expected it would be such a long day, yet it was a great one. Thanks to our very experienced and passionate tour guide Darren and the excited Koala Charlie! Highly recommended!

We booked the private group with the same highlight with this day trip, everything are wonderful lunch is great, all the place are so beautiful and impressible. The best of the best is “Charlie”our tour leader and driver, he knows everything about the trip very well and entertain us along the trip, he has knowledge in dept since he worked in that forest before so real and fantastic, my daughter and son learned a lot about rain forest during walking and have fun. He is so professional tour leader and kind person, he recommended the good restaurant for dinner and managed the time perfectly. I strongly recommend all my friends to visit Melbourne and have the trip with you again. Thank again for wonderful trip. Regards Charlie’s angel

Thank you Wildlife Tours and to our Guide Darren for such an incredible experience. I will highly recommend to friends and family

Wow what can I say about this trip but another WOW! Our guide was incredible and helped create an incredible experience. The Great Ocean road is a must do if coming to Melbourne

Had a great day trip with Autopia to The Great Ocean Road & Rainforest walk. Henning, our tour guide was fantastic. Generous with his time (we are still on the bus at 9.30pm), knowledgeable, professional – and a really nice bloke! Would recommend this company and this gentleman to anyone. Hotel pick up fantastic. Thank you

Excellent day trip! Bus is a little small, but it didn’t take away from the day and the driver was fantastic and very knowledgeable. This trip is worth every penny.

We were picked up in central Melbourne and had morning tea in a little town called Colac. First landmark we saw was the London Bridge where we stopped for 15 mins to take in the view, we then went on to Loch Ard Gorge where we had longer time to walk around, really beautiful spot. Then we headed to the 12 Apostles where we had an hour, we had lunch here and there was an opportunity to go up in a helicopter for those who had pre-booked. There is a steady walk around the cliffs to take in the views of the Apostles. It is a busy place with lots of posing and selfies!

We then moved on to Mait’s rest forest tour again an easy 30 min walk the guide was entertaining and new his stuff. The trees were amazing to see.

We then had a toilet break at a seaside town and on to my favourite part of the day….Koalas! I got to see my first wild koalas on this trip. In fact one was sat on the crash barrier looking out to the ocean! Our guide said he had never seen anything like it before! At Kennett River there were also a lot of parrots which are clearly used to being fed as they were jumping on some of the other tourists.

We then drove along the rest of the Ocean Drive Road and had a photo opportunity at the Memorial Park Gates. One last stop for pizzas in Torquay and back to Melbourne for about 7.30pm all in all a very memorable day and thanks to a great driver and tour guide. Definitely recommend this to anyone visiting Melbourne and has a spare day.

What a fantastic tour we had on the 6th December with Andrea (and Rob) who was training. He will be a lovely and very approachable tour guide when he is ready.

A lot of people recommended doing great ocean road over several days. However we saw everything we felt the need to see on the day tour, it was more than sufficient.

Throughout this time we had morning tea, stopped at several bays and beaches, a wildlife park, had a lunch stop, went to viewing points, did a rainforest walk AND saw the 12 Apostles. The day went by very quickly and although there were so many stops, we didn’t feel rushed which was great.

The highlight of our tour was definitely seeing the parrots and koalas in the trees. You can feed the parrots and get some amazing photos!

We were picked up at 6.55am and didn’t return in the CBD until 8.30pm! Andrea was extremely knowledgable about everything that we did and saw. I can thoroughly recommend it as something to do in Melbourne.

This tour is not a must, but can be done if you have a day to spend and don’t know what to do. This tour takes you along different sights and places along the Great Ocean Road. It was a good tour as we got to see the 12 Apostles (now only 9 left), the Shipwreck Cove (The Loch Ard Gorge), The Maits Rest Rainforest (A small 20-25 mins walk through the rainforest) and many beautiful views along the Great Ocean Road. We also stopped in a place with some beautiful birds and koalas. It was a day well spent.

Our host for this tour was KK. She was really fun and patient (as at times we would return later than the rest of the group to the bus – apologies to everyone for that).

The tour was awesome. Got to spend time at all the major highlights of the Great Ocean Road! Tour guide was very helpful and nice. Would highly recommend as price is unbeatable.

I booked the Great Ocean road day tour with an online travel agent (Travel Freedom), who got me a day tour with Wildlife tours. I had been shopping around for rates and got a good deal for our family of six, which included lunch, so I was not sure what I would be getting for less than $100 per person, while other rates go as high as $130. Our tour went very well, my family enjoyed all the beauty and wonder of this tour, and all the history and information provided by our tour guide, Craig- who is not only knowledgeable, but full of wit and humor. Will look for Wildlife Tours again when we visit Australia!

We had a truly memorable day and couldn’t believe how much we managed to cram in. I need to give special mention to our tour guide Grant who really made the day with his informative but easygoing and often amusing commentary- it’s a long time to spend on a small coach and the commentary really helped the time pass and helped us learn about our surroundings. The meal stop was also really good – better than you often expect on tours where restaurants cater for large groups converging on them. Thanks for a tremendous day that we will always remember. Best wishes, Andy and Jill

My friends and I visited 3 places during our 1 week stay in Australia and the great ocean road was the best. The tourist guide was very friendly. Lots of things to see and pictures to take. We surely had a wonderful time.

It was my first time on the Great Ocean Road and I was not disappointed. The best part of it was the photo opportunities. So many things to see on a beautiful sunny day, I recommend this trip.

What an amazing tour with Rob, he had us in stitches. The views were amazing at the great ocean road. Everyone on the tour I spoke to really enjoyed themselves. Thanks Rob

Thanks for a good time. The koalas were my favorite of the one day tour. A long drive but the tour guide made it more fun.

I had an amazing time with Darren on the Great Ocean Road tour. He answered all our questions and helped us get the best out of our cameras by taking nice photos of beautiful places.

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15 Places Along The Great Ocean Road To Visit On A One-Day Road Trip In Victoria, Australia

I’ve always dreamt of going on a road trip. Sadly, it’s impossible to find winding roads, mesmerising views and quiet traffic in bustling Singapore, all at the same time.

One of the most famous places to go on a road trip is, in fact, Australia. So when I was recently Down Under, a road trip along the world-famous Great Ocean Road was in order.

We know there’s plenty to see along the Great Ocean Road, but conquering it within a day is possible. So here are  15 places to visit along the Great Ocean Road on a one-day road trip !

Getting Started

Now, it’s important to know that this day-trip itinerary only includes the more popular attractions. So if you’d like to see everything, taking two or three days to do the drive might be more appropriate.

Whatever you decide, you’ll first need a car, and we rented ours from JUCY in Melbourne. 

Next, you’ll also need a map. Any basic map app on your smartphone should do just fine, so we used Google Maps.

Lastly, make sure you get a good night’s sleep the night before! This road trip begins early in the morning, even before sunrise. You’ll definitely want to be able to wake up for it.

1. Memorial Arch (8am)

Our first stop was the Memorial Arch , which is located just past the city of Torquay.

To get here, however, was a two-hour drive via the M1 highway from Melbourne. We set off from the city at 6am .

Trust me, though, it’ll be worth waking up early for. The earlier you get here, the more likely you’ll have the entire place to yourself, as we did.

The arch is a symbolic monument as it represents the gateway to the Great Ocean Road. 

Not only that, but the Memorial Arch also represents a piece of history. It pays homage to the soldiers who survived World War I and built the Great Ocean Road.

If you’re an avid history geek, there’re actually a handful of plaques on-site which you can read up on. 

Memorial Arch: 689/721 Great Ocean Road, Eastern View VIC 3231, Australia

2. The Bottle of Milk (8.30am)

Your eyebags are probably heavy from waking up so early, so head on to The Bottle of Milk for breakfast!

Located in the seaside town of Lorne , the cafe serves up a good variety of hearty dishes for breakfast.

If you love avocados like me, the Smashed Avo (AUD$17) is a must-try. 

Creamy mashed avocados atop a fluffy sourdough bread—need I say more?

You might want to add on their Poached Eggs (AUD$3),  because eggs make everything better.

Energise yourself with a cuppa before you leave too. The Bottle of Milk brews a mean cup of Cappuccino (AUD$4) which will definitely get your day going.

The Bottle of Milk: 52 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne VIC 3232, Australia | Tel: +61 3 5289 2005 | Opening Hours: 8am – 4pm (Mon – Thu), 8am – 8pm (Fri & Sat), 8am – 5pm (Sun) | Facebook | Instagram | Website

3. Teddy’s Lookout (9.15am)

I’m sure you’re ready to hit the road once again after such a satisfying breakfast. However, just before you leave Lorne, take a quick drive up to Teddy’s Lookout .

On this clifftop viewpoint, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the winding Great Ocean Road.

Not only that, but you’ll also have a panoramic view of the Bass Strait. The therapeutic sounds of the waves crashing on the shoreline will definitely soothe your mind.

Teddy’s Lookout: 53 George Street, Lorne VIC 3232, Australia

4. Kennett River (10am)

Just an approximately 30-minute drive away from Lorne is Kennett River , another small seaside town.

There are plenty of places across Australia which allow you to see koalas up close, such as Phillip Island . However, there’s nothing like spotting them in the wild, and Kennett River is where you can find them.

Head towards Kennett River Holiday Park and take a left turn onto Grey River Road. The koalas are supposedly on the gum trees along the road, so drive slowly and keep a close lookout. 

Perhaps we were unlucky that day, but we didn’t manage to spot any wild koalas at all. Either that or they were out there but we were just not observant enough to see through their camouflage.

Hopefully, it’s the latter case so those of you with eagle eyes can have better luck spotting them.

Kennett River: Kennett River VIC 3234, Australia

5. Cape Patton Lookout Point (10.45am)

Like Teddy’s Lookout, Cape Patton Lookout Point is yet another great vantage point to take in the ocean breeze.

It’s also the final highpoint before another 30-minute drive to the next stop.

We were incredibly lucky to spot a rainbow while we were there too! It definitely made up for our zero-koala sighting, I’ll tell you that.

Cape Patton Lookout Point: 4825 Great Ocean Road, Wongarra VIC 3234, Australia

6. Dooley’s Ice Cream (11.30am)

We chased that rainbow and ended up finding yet another one! This time, however, it was in the form of ice creams, in Dooley’s Ice Cream .

Tucked away along a long row of shops in Apollo Bay, this ice cream shop has an illustrious history.

They’ve won over 400 awards since 2008, including the championship title of the Australian Grand Dairy Awards 2019. 

Their multi-award-winning Chocolate (AUD$5.50/single scoop, AUD$8.50/ double scoop, AUD$11.50/ triple scoop)  flavour is a must-try over here. Perfectly rich and velvety, it was everything a chocolate-lover like me could ever ask for.

Their Honey Malt was an accidental discovery, but I’m glad I found it. The unique floral notes came off surprisingly well. I never expected honey to taste that good in ice cream!

For all you adventurous foodies, they even offer a one-of-a-kind Vegemite flavour as well. It was certainly an interesting flavour, though I wasn’t particularly into it.

This prestigious ice cream shop in Apollo Bay is Dooley’s Ice Cream’s only outlet in the whole of Australia. You’ll definitely want to make a stop here on your road trip, as such.

Dooley’s Ice Cream: 89 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay VIC 3233, Australia | Tel: +61 3 5237 7581 | Opening Hours: 11am – 5.30pm (Daily) | Facebook | Instagram | Website

7. Secret Apostles Lookout (1.30pm)

After doing some souvenir shopping, we left Apollo Bay for the Secret Apostles Lookout .

Before setting off, however, make sure you visit the toilet, as the journey takes about 80 minutes of driving.

Unlike what its name might suggest, the Secret Apostles Lookout isn’t actually that much of a secret. We found out about it since it was geotagged on Google Maps.

Nonetheless, for some reason, not many people seem to know about its existence. We actually had the entire place to ourselves while we were there.

So if you’d like your pictures to be free of annoying tourists in the background, this is the perfect spot.

Secret Apostles Lookout: B100, Princetown VIC 3269, Australia

8. Gibson’s Steps (2pm)

Our next stop, which was only a minute’s drive away from the Secret Apostles Lookout, was Gibson’s Steps .

For those of you who’re wondering, Gibson’s Steps actually refers to the stairway leading down to the beach. They were named after Gibson, the man who carved all 86 steps.

Should the weather permit, you can head down and take a relaxing stroll along the beautiful beach.

You’ll also have the opportunity to meet Gog and Magog, the two enormous offshore limestone stacks.

Gibson’s Steps: Port Campbell National Park, Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell VIC 3269, Australia

9. Twelve Apostles (2.30pm)

This next attraction certainly needs no introduction.

The Twelve Apostles is undoubtedly the most popular destination along the Great Ocean Road.

These (now) eight apostles have become so well-known that there’s even a visitor facility for them.

Not only that, but with such immense popularity also, you can definitely expect large crowds here.

You’ll have to jostle your way through and find the right timing in order to capture those perfect shots for the ‘gram !

Twelve Apostles: Great Ocean Road & Booringa Road, Princetown VIC 3269, Australia

10. Tom and Eva Lookout (3pm)

We took a quick three-minute drive and found ourselves another sightseeing location, Tom and Eva Lookout .

The names, Tom and Eva, actually refer to the two massive rock pillars protruding from the ocean.

Interestingly, they were once connected together. However, in 2009, the archway between them collapsed, forming the two landforms that we see today.

Tom and Eva Lookout: Port Campbell VIC 3269, Australia

11. Loch Ard Gorge (3.30pm)

Just a limestone’s throw away from Tom and Eva is the magnificent Loch Ard Gorge .

I’m sure many of you are familiar with this physical feature. I, for one, remember seeing it in my geography textbooks numerous times.

The particularly smooth waves here make for a very tranquil and scenic spot. The ultra-clear and blue waters will also make your photos pop.

There are several lookouts in the area and you’re welcome to visit every one of them, should your schedule permit. However, we spent quite some time making sure we had the best photos, so we didn’t do so.

Nevertheless, of all the locations we went to, the Loch Ard Gorge was undoubtedly my favourite. If you’re a geography geek like I am, it’s a must-visit!

Loch Ard Gorge: Great Ocean Road Port, Campbell VIC 3269, Australia

12. The Arch (4.15pm)

Our next destination was The Arch , which was just a short drive away from Port Campbell.

This natural limestone formation stands at a height of eight metres. Its distinctive curviness is a result of many years of wave action.

A common misconception, which I was guilty of having, is that it is the same landform as the London Arch.

The two are actually entirely different formations. Their close proximity to each other might have caused the misconception, I reckon.

The Arch: Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell VIC 3269, Australia

13. London Arch (4.45pm)

Right beside the aforementioned The Arch is the London Arch .

Apart from being another great spot for sweeping views of the ocean, this ginormous landform actually has an interesting backstory.

For the longest time, it had another name, London Bridge. However, in 1990, a part of it broke off, disconnecting the ‘bridge’ as a result.

It then became to be what we know it is today, London Arch.

We were there as the sun was beginning to set. This gave the arch a beautiful golden hue which was absolutely breathtaking.

As such, I’d say time your visit for the end of the day. This natural phenomenon is definitely something you won’t want to miss.

London Arch: Great Ocean Road, Peterborough VIC 3270, Australia

14. The Grotto (5.15pm)

The final attraction of our Great Ocean Road trip was The Grotto .

This landform was, in my view, the most fascinating of the lot. Following the footpath from the carpark to the viewing wall felt like descending into another world.

It was simply spellbinding that the water in the cave was so still amidst the crashing waves outside.

Not only that, but it was also so clear that I could see a completely unclouded reflection in it.

The Grotto: Peterborough VIC 3270, Australia

15. Port Campbell (6pm)

After a day of sightseeing and picture-taking, it was finally time to head back to the city. So we turned back and made our way to the town of Port Campbell , our final stop .

To prepare ourselves for the three-hour drive back to Melbourne, we dropped by a local convenience store. Some snacks and light bites were necessary to keep us occupied throughout the journey.

Alternatively, you can choose to have dinner at the handful of restaurants in Port Campbell too.

Those of you who’re continuing your Great Ocean Road trip the next day can also stay over at Port Campbell. There are several hotels in the town for visitors to stay for the night.

Port Campbell: Port Campbell VIC 3629, Australia

With that, we concluded our one-day road trip along Australia’s most beloved Great Ocean Road. I’d say we managed to cover a good number of the big-name attractions, considering that we had only a day.

That said, this itinerary is merely a guide for the time-pressed. Should you have more time available, I’d definitely recommend extending your road trip so you get the full experience.

Nonetheless, we hope this will help you better plan for a memorable road trip along this truly Great Ocean Road.

Written By Lee Wei Yang

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The Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles, Australia

How Long Does It Take To Drive The Great Ocean Road?

Beginning in Torquay and driving to the end of the Great Ocean Road near Allansford is 238 km, drive time is 3 hours 47 minutes. That is without stopping to see the famous sights such as the 12 Apostles etc.

It is a terrific drive and whilst it might seem an easy enough road trip and not such a huge distance, the reality is that you will want to stop at all the beaches, seaside towns, waterfalls, and well-known look out spots.

What makes the Ocean Road Great?

The world-famous 12 Apostles , rainforest walks, waterfalls, historic lighthouses, and koalas in the wild all make the Great Ocean Road one of the best drives in Australia.

One day self-drive trips along the Great Ocean Road are popular as well as small bus tours, though, if you have time, a couple of days can easily be filled seeing so much more.

What to expect

Most of the Great Ocean Road follows the coast and winds around cliffs, sometimes climbing high with distant views along the coast and out to the Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean, other times dipping down to sea level where travelers can feel the thunder of the waves and explore the many beaches and rock pools.

A number of viewpoints along the Great Ocean Road provide visitors with time to breathe in the salty air and read historical markers.

The ocean road then goes inland through rainforest and farmland before climbing over the top of the Otway Ranges and back down to what is known as the ‘Shipwreck Coast’ before reaching the famous rock formations of the Twelve Apostles.

50 Best Things to See – Great Ocean Road Map

The return Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne is more than 500 km and best explored over two days or more if time allows. See the interactive map and read our list of the 50 Best things to see and do when visiting the region.

Lorne and Apollo Bay are ideal locations to use as a base for extended holidays in the region.

Caravan parks and campgrounds are easy to find all along the coast, most vary between resort-style caravan parks which are ideal for families, to basic bush camping spots and a limited number of free camping sites are available too.

HISTORY OF THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD

The Great Ocean Road is a memorial to those who fought and lost their lives in World War I. Built by returned servicemen, it was a huge engineering task that ended many years of isolation for the township of Lorne and surrounding communities.

Plans first began in the 1880s and became a reality towards the end of the First World War. The proposal was made that funds be provided for the employment of returned soldiers building roads in underpopulated regions. The plan was described as the ‘South Coast Road’ following the coast around Cape Otway and ending near Warrnambool.

Great Ocean Road Route Map – Planning your Road Trip itinerary

• How long do you need to see everything? Read our 1,2, and 6 day Great Ocean Road itineraries to decide which road trip will suit you best, perhaps you only have time for a day trip or can extend it once you know how much there is to see?
• Are you wondering where to stay? Reading our itineraries can help. There are luxury resorts, motels, hotels, cottages, backpackers, cabins, and camping grounds.
• If you are from overseas do you feel comfortable to self-drive on the left-hand side of the road? If not, perhaps an organized tour from Melbourne would be a good choice? We can show you the best tours.
• What is the Great Ocean Road weather like? We cover that in our FAQ’s.
• What are the best attractions, things to see, and the best stops along the way? We know the Great Ocean Road tour route really well and have detailed highlights on the map below.
• What else is there to do? There is so much more to do! We have listed a load more things such as gourmet food places, microbreweries, surf schools, and tree climbing parks at the end of the page.
• Use this Great Ocean Road map to plan an itinerary when driving from Melbourne to Adelaide , or vice versa.
• The ‘Twelve Apostles’ are in which National Park? The 12 Apostles are in the Port Campbell National Park.

The PERFECT Great Ocean Road Drive Itinerary (2024)

• Last Updated: January 2, 2024

Check out our ultimate self drive itineraries for the Great Ocean Road, Australia!

One of the most iconic road trips in all of Australia, if not the world, has got to be the Great Ocean Road drive.

375km of scenic winding roads along the southern ocean will take you through some of the country’s most beautiful UNESCO-listed landscapes.

You can tackle the Great Ocean Road in one long day, or break it up over a few days, which is what we suggest doing.

Having your own vehicle is highly recommended so you can explore all the things to see on the Great Ocean Road on self-drive itineraries, as it really is one of Australia’s top destinations .

If that is not an option though, or you don’t like the idea of driving on the ‘wrong side of the road’, there are plenty of excellent tours like this one   that will take you to see all the sights including the Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell, Otway National Park and more.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Table of Contents

Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Memoria arch, where to stay in apollo bay, great otway national park, the twelve apostles, port campbell national park, where to stay in warrnambool, back to melbourne, onto adelaide, how long does it take to drive the great ocean road, where does the great ocean road start and finish, is the great ocean road dangerous, great ocean road drive itinerary.

Self drive itineraries are the best option for the Great Ocean Road, Australia. With your own car, you’ll be able to stop when and where you want, spending as long as you need to check out the beaches, taking in the views and having the freedom to explore at your leisure.

Let us help you get started with planning your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Our particular itinerary starts in Melbourne and finishes in Port Fairy over 3 days, and is the exact route we have personally done numerous times.

READ MORE: Be sure to plan your best trip to Australia by using our Australia Travel Guide!

• Distance: 195km
• Drive Time: 3 Hours
• Sightseeing Time: 5 Hours

For most people, driving the Great Ocean Road trip will  start in Melbourne  and can be done in a loop or a return journey. That’s how we’re going to structure this post for you.

Other options include coming from Adelaide, so if this is you, just read the Great Ocean Road itinerary backwards.

If you’ve hired a car you’ll most likely collect it at the airport. Stock up on essentials, fill up the car, turn up the radio and head towards Apollo Bay!

How far is the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne?

To drive direct from the Melbourne CBD to Torquay, where the road officially starts, is 104km, or 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The first stop when driving the Great Ocean Road will be  Geelong.  This port city is the second-largest in the state of Victoria and overlooks the gorgeous  Corio Bay.

Head for  Eastern Beach  first. Go for a swim in the southern ocean, soak in the sun or admire the stunning views out over Corio Bay and go for a stroll along the  Eastern Promenade . If you want one of the best views in Geelong, grab a seat on the  SkyWheel .

For a great post-drive meal check out the  Geelong Boathouse  for a classic fish & chips by the sea. While wandering around town you’ll surely spot a ton of street art, which is something Geelong is known for.

And to get your fill of more art you can visit the  Geelong Art Gallery  and  The Heritage Center .

There are also several wineries and breweries in the area worth stopping in at to pick something up to enjoy throughout the rest of your trip too.

Not too far down the coast is an iconic must-visit stop on any of the Great Ocean Road drives,  Torquay, known for its epic surf beaches.

One of the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road is going out for a paddle at some of the most famous surf beaches in Australia.

Taking  a surf lesson  is a sure-fire way to have you feeling confident on the board and in the water if you haven’t tried the sport before.

For more experienced surfers, and those looking to set foot onto a world-renowned surf beach, head to  Bells Beach .

Made famous for the  Rip Curl Pro  hosted every Easter, Bells Beach is not only beautiful but a huge part of both Australian and surf culture.

Other good breaks in addition to Bells Beach include  San Juc, Winki Pop, Bird Rock  and  Sparrows  just to name a few.

Torquay is also home to the  Surf World Museum  with tons of history about the sport and its fame in Australia. You’ll also find the  Australian Surfing Hall of Fame  here as well.

If you’re a hiker more than a surfer, you’ll be in for a treat with the  Surf Coast Walk  – 44km of trails that connect Torquay to  Angelsea  and  Aireys Inlet  along the coast.

The landscape varies depending on which route you take. But all the views are spectacular on this stretch of the Great Ocean Road Trip. For more information on routes and trails visit the website  here .

No Great Ocean road trip is complete without making a stop at  Memoria Arch , which is less than 30 minutes from Torquay and a real highlight of the journey.

Built in honour of the 3,000 soldiers who worked on this stretch of road after WWI, there is now also a sculpture there to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the arch.

A great photo op spot, this is one of the most photographed spots along the Great Ocean Road.

Continue on from this point as there are tons of Great Ocean Road attractions to come.

Lorne  is the closest town from the arch and a great spot to grab some lunch at  Bottle of Milk , use the facilities and continue on towards  Kennett River .

It’s also a fantastic place if you are looking to see some native Australian wildlife.

The  Kennett River Koala Walk  is the perfect place to get your fix. The whole trail is about 15km, but your best chances for spotting the cute indigenous animals are about 6km in at  Grey River . Turn off for this road just before you reach Apollo Bay.

Make sure you visit first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon for the best koala viewing times. You’ll find them sitting up in the eucalyptus trees.

Apollo Bay is a popular place on the Great Ocean Road, so make sure you have booked your accommodation ahead of time.

Our personal recommendation for where we stay in Apollo Bay every time is The Apollo Apartment .

With great facilities, cozy apartment-style suites and great views from almost any room on site, this is your best choice if you’d like a bit of space to stretch out after a big day of driving the Great Ocean Road.

Day 2 : Apollo Bay to Warrnambool

• Distance: 160km
• Drive Time: 2 hr 30 min
• Sightseeing Time: 5 hours

Apollo Bay is a gorgeous seaside village, located at the entry to the Otways, and without a doubt is one of the most scenic and picturesque stops on our Great Ocean Road trip.

For the best panoramic views in Apollo Bay head straight for  Marriners Lookout.  From the car park, there is a short trail that will lead you right to the viewpoint where you’ll be gifted with the most incredible sweeping views of Apollo Bay and the coastline.

If you fancy trying your luck to spot some wildlife head out to nearby  Lake Elizabeth.

The lake views here are stunning and if you’re lucky you might even be able to lay your eyes on a platypus or two.

These unique and adorable local animals call this spot home and have been known to use the lake as a nesting ground when having babies so best to keep your eyes peeled.

Not even 15km from Apollo Bay is the incredibly lush and beautiful  Great Otway National Park . While the Great Ocean Road covers a ton of coastline, this national park is a gem located more on the inland route.

Covering nearly 200 hectares, this park is one of the few Great Ocean Road highlights that is not a beach. Deep lush valleys, sky-high rainforests, stunning waterfalls and tons of walking tracks make it a great spot to get off the beach and still be in nature.

One of the best walking tracks to visit here is  Melba Gulley  which is full of gorgeous giant fern trees and home to glow worm caves, which are best seen after dark.

For a shorter track check out  Maits Rest  which will take you through a beautiful section of rainforest. For more trail information in Great Otway National Park, visit this  website .

If you’re looking to do a bit of waterfall chasing, this is a great place to find them!

Stevenson Falls, Triplet Falls, Little Aire Falls , and  Hopetoun Falls  are just a few of the many highlights here. Keep an eye open as you wander the trails for koalas up in the trees and beautiful native birds soaring around too.

From here you are well on your way to having covered a ton of ground on your road trip. But one of the most incredible Great Ocean Road attractions is just around the corner.

The Twelve Apostles  are one of the most amazing sights within Australia and it’s not hard to see why as you road trip along the coast from Great Otway.

Due to crashing waves over millennia, saltwater and erosion there are now only 8 limestone stacks remaining out of 12. But that does not take away from the impressive views at all.

An absolute must-do for anyone wanting one of the best views of this part of the Great Ocean Road is to book in for a  Twelve Apostles Helicopter Ride.

Soaring high above the limestone stacks you’ll get the best views of Victoria’s Shipwreck Coast . Sail through the clouds with only 1 other person for an up-close and personal adventure. This is a highlight of visiting the Great Ocean Road!

You’ll also find the end of the  Great Ocean Walk  here, which allows you to get some stunning coastal views from a boardwalk before taking to the beach to see these immense stacks from the ground.

Seeing the Twelve Apostles for yourself should be at the top of your Australian Bucket list, no matter the weather. It’s a highlight of a Great Ocean Road itinerary!

If you really want a unique perspective though, and love a bit of adventure, how does skydiving over the 12 Apostles sound?

Jump out of a plane at 15,000 feet above the ground and get the best, most exhilarating views of the entire coastline.

Make sure you book ahead though, as it’s not something you can just show up and do. Reserve your spot here .

And your Great Ocean Road route should not miss out on two other attractions nearby either.

After the Twelve Apostles, continue along the Great Ocean Road towards Port Campbell.

Loch Ard Gorge  is the first attraction on the way, just a stone’s throw from the Twelve Apostles. This stone archway once formed a natural bridge over the gorge, but unfortunately collapsed almost a decade ago.

However, Loch Ard Gorge is still a stunning place for a swim. Now 2 pillars are left standing above the sea and make for an impressive view in  Port Campbell National Park .

After the gorge you’ll pass the town of Port Campbell. It’s a small village, but Port Campbell is a nice place to stop for a snack and some fuel.

After passing through Port Campbell, you’ll pass by The Arch and London Bridge. Both are natural, offshore stone archways. The Arch is a giant archway in the ocean, and London Bridge is the same but is more square instead of arched to it looks like a bridge. Both are amazing expressions of natural beauty and are worth checking out.

The Grotto is one of the most impressive sections of the coastline, and essentially a sinkhole. What is a partial cave, archway and blowhole, The Grotto is definitely something to marvel at.

The weather can play a huge part in what is visible and how close you can get to this area. On a clear sunny day and depending on the tide you can get pretty close. However, when the winds pick up it is best to stay above the Grotto. 

Before making your way onto day number 3 of your adventure-packed Great Ocean Road trip you’ll be looking for a place to catch a good night’s sleep.

Quest Warrnambool is the perfect place to do just that. Conveniently located a little ways from Port Campbell, these serviced apartments have great rooms, a gorgeous pool area and make for a great stopover.

We personally stayed there when we travelled across Australia, and highly recommend it.

Day 3: Warrnambool to Port Fairy then Melbourne (or Adelaide)

• Distance: 30km to Port Fairy, then 312km to Melbourne
• Drive Time: 30 minutes to Port Fairy, 4 hours to Melbourne
• Sightseeing Time: 4 hours

With the last day of your Great Ocean Road itinerary upon you, there is still so much to be seen and experienced.

After a late arrival into  Warrnambool,  you’ll want to see a few of the sights the city has to offer.

To get you fueled up for your last day head to  Bohemia   Cafe & Bar  for a takeaway coffee or a wicked and delicious breakfast.

Brekkie tacos, smoothie bowls and a full lunch menu to eat in or take away will please anyone visiting.

As Victoria’s 5th largest city, Warrnambool is a lot bigger than most of the seaside towns along the Great Ocean Road drive.

However, the views aren’t affected by the bigger cityscape.

Cannon Hill  is a great place to start if you want to get the lay of the land. This lookout gives you the chance to see right out to sea and over the entire city.

The  Foreshore Promenade  is a great place for a stroll as well and stretches on for about 6 km.

From  Warrnambool Breakwater  all the way to  Logan’s Beach  this is a great spot to take in the coastal views and even pass a little penguin breeding ground. So you may get lucky to lay your eyes on some of these cute local beach dwellers.

While it is a large city the laid back beach vibe is very present here and you could wind up spending more time here than you planned.

Once you’ve had your fill, hop in the car for a quick drive and to the next and last destination of your road trip.

Your Great Ocean Road itinerary may be coming to an end, but don’t worry, you’ll finish up with a dreamy little visit to  Port Fairy .

Port Fairy is a tiny town on Victoria’s iconic shipwreck coast with a charming vibe and an exciting causeway that leads you out to an island worth exploring too.

One of the best things to do here is take a walk out on the  Port Fairy Wharves.

Head down to the Moyne River and stretch your legs along the wharves. This is a great place not only to catch some stunner views but also to watch the fisherman come in with their catch, which you likely can find in the restaurants in town.

Griffiths Island  can be accessed by a footbridge nearby to the wharf and is a great place to do a little bird watching.

There is a walking track around the island and on the most westerly point you’ll find a lovely little lighthouse and a pretty viewpoint too.

Battery Hill  is a great spot to get a view from on high of the town and see some pieces of Port Fairy history like the remnants of a Russian invasion from the 1860s.

The  Port Fairy   Botanical Gardens  are a lovely spot for an afternoon walk and to admire the plants and flowers.

What used to be a swamp was reclaimed and turned into these pretty gardens in 1858. Over time it has been improved to create a peaceful and beautiful space to be enjoyed.

One of the most adventurous things to do on the Great Ocean Road drive is to do a bit of scuba diving.

Port Fairy offers great locations for  scuba diving  including  The Thistle.  This dive spot is actually a ship that was wrecked off the eastern beach in Port Fairy in 1849.

Now you’ll be able to find the wreckage in shallow waters, which makes it great for divers to explore.

While your stop here signals the end of your epic 3 day Great Ocean Road itinerary, you’re now on to new and exciting things.

At the end of your Great Ocean Road itinerary, you can leave Port Fairy and  head back towards Melbourne  on the M8 National highway to take on your next series of Aussie fun.

Along the way be sure to stop off at one of the small towns for a late afternoon-snack or coffee, or you can take a detour up to Ballarat for the night to learn about the gold rush.

If you’d like to continue travelling Australia beyond the Great Ocean Road, you can  head northwest to Adelaide .

You can do this in one big day (it’s almost 600km direct), but we personally recommend breaking the trip up into 2 or 3 days, spending some time in Mount Gambier and Coorong National Park.

You can drive the entire length of the Great Ocean Road in one long day (about 8 hours return), but we recommend splitting the journey up into a few days.

The road starts in Torquay, and finishes in Allansford.

No, the Great Ocean Road isn’t particularly dangerous to drive, as long as you take proper precautions. The main issues can be poor visibility due to fog, slippery roads in wet weather, and traffic from vehicles and pedestrians in the busy sections.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Jarryd, thank you for talking us along the Great Ocean Road, we are coming down from Brisbane mid April 2023 and plan to self drive it. You have given us a great itinerary to get the best out of our trip. thought of doing it in one day, but now will make a stop over and take two days.. Again thank you. David & Marg.

Hi David and Marg, thanks so much for your comment. We hope you have a great time along the Great Ocean Road. Happy travels. 🙂

Perfect write up, very helpful indeed, Appreciate your work guys, Cheers.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it. 🙂

Great post guys, you have inspired me to take a trip here when I finally get to Australia again!

hi guys my husband and l are going to drive the great ocean road in early November. We want to book accommodation as we go . Do you think that will be possible that time of year or do we have to book in advance ? Can’t wait for the trip , Thanks Tracy

Hi Tracy, November is a beautiful time to travel the Great Ocean Road. We know what you mean by just taking your time and booking the day of but we would recommend booking in advance as it is so much busier now. After the last couple of years, it seems everyone wants to be out and about and go travelling. Have a great time. Happy travels.

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The Great Ocean Road from Melbourne - 1-Day Itinerary

Built between 1919 and 1932 by returned World War I soldiers, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world and an important tourist attraction in Australia. It was dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, making it the world’s largest war memorial.

Although the Great Ocean Road is best known for the limestone rock stacks in the ocean called “The Twelve Apostles”, it also has many other highlights along the route, including forests, waterfalls, lighthouses, beaches, and koalas. If you visit at the right time, you might even be able to spot whales!

During my visit to Melbourne, I had the opportunity to visit the famous route when my host offered to take me there.

Table of Contents

About the Great Ocean Road

Where is the great ocean road.

The Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometre (151-mile) route located along the coast of Victoria in southeastern Australia. It starts in Torquay and continues westward to Allansford.

Most visitors to the Great Ocean Road travel from Melbourne , which is the nearest major city. It’s also possible to travel from Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road, although the journey is close to 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) and may take you a few days to complete.

A Brief History of the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road was first planned toward the end of World War I to connect isolated settlements on the coast and to become a transport link for tourism and the timber industry. At the time, the communities around the rugged southern coast were only accessible by sea or a rough bush track.

After receiving enough funds, the road was built by returned soldiers, and was officially opened on 26th November 1932 by Lieutenant Governor, Sir William Irvine.

Best Time to Visit the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is great to visit at any time of the year, with its mild winters (6°C – 15°C) and pleasantly warm summers (12°C – 26°C).

The summer months (December to February) are perfect if you plan to spend most of your time on the beach. But this is also the busiest time of the year, which means bigger crowds, traffic delays, and difficulty in finding parking spaces.

On the other hand, the winter season (June to August) can be chilly, but there will be less crowd and if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to see whales. Going on the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) is also a good idea to avoid crowds.

I visited in September and while it was quite cold and windy, I don’t think I encountered any more than one or two other tourists at each of the attractions.

How to Get to the Great Ocean Road

Traveling by car is the most popular way to visit the Great Ocean Road as it gives you the freedom to go at your own time and pace. Not only will you get to make as many stops and stay for as long as you want, you also get to time your visit to avoid crowds.

Car rental can be arranged in Melbourne city, at the airport, online, or through your hotel.

From Melbourne, take the Princess freeway (M1) toward Geelong, then take the Geelong bypass toward Torquay. Here, you will join the B100, which will later become the Great Ocean Road.

By Tour Bus

For those of you who can’t drive or prefer not to, there are many day tour options that can take you to the major highlights along the Great Ocean Road without the hassle of renting a car and driving the long route.

Check out these tours on Klook (if you’re not sure what Klook is, click here to read my review):

Things to See & Do on the Great Ocean Road (1 Day Itinerary)

The Great Ocean Road is more than just a long drive by the coast. There are plenty of things to see and do along the 243-kilometre stretch, both natural and man-made.

Here is a list of things you can see on a day trip to the Great Ocean Road:

1. The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch

First thing first! Gotta let ’em people know you’ve been to the Great Ocean Road, right? Therefore, a photo in front of the iconic wooden arch — right at the start of the road — is a must for any visitor.

But don’t be mistaken — the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch is not a mere photo op. It was erected in honor of the 3,000 returned soldiers who built the road by hand between 1919 and 1932.

There’s space to park along the road and a carpark off to the left of the arch.

2. Split Point Lighthouse

If you had ever watched the Aussie 90s kids TV show “Round the Twist”, you’d probably remember this lighthouse. The exterior was portrayed as the family’s lighthouse home.

Also known as “The White Queen with the Red Cap”, the Split Point Lighthouse is clearly visible once you come around the bend in Aireys Inlet. It has been guarding the coast since 1891 and is still a fully functioning lighthouse, guiding ships through the treacherous Bass Strait.

For $10, visitors are allowed to go inside on a self-guided tour. Don’t forget to go to the lookout point to see spectacular views of the Fairhaven Surf Beach.

3. Erskine Falls

After Aireys Inlet, the next town you will arrive at is Lorne . You can stop here and explore the hipster cafes, eateries, and cute shops. We didn’t. Instead, we went straight to Esrkine Falls, about 10 minutes’ drive from town.

The 30-metre high falls are nestled within a lush conifer forest and require a short hike up some stairs to get to. When the water level is low, it’s possible to cross the river right up to the falls. But do wear proper shoes, as the path can be slippery and muddy. 

Watch out for snakes if you go in the summer.

4. Kennett River Koala Walk

It might sound unbelievable, but the Great Ocean Road is actually home to one of the largest koala populations in Australia. On top of that, it is also one of the best places to spot other Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, platypus, wombats, and echidna.

Although it’s possible to bump into these animals at any of the forests (and even on the road and coastline sometimes), you’d have the highest chance of an encounter at the Kennett River Koala Walk.

You can either take a slow drive along the road or pull over and walk. Just look up into the eucalyptus trees and you surely won’t be disappointed. We spotted more than 10 chunky koalas. If they’re not snoozing on the branches, they’d be munching on the leaves.

Do keep in mind that these are wild animals in their natural habitat, and you’re the (uninvited) guest. Please keep a respectful distance. Do not make excessive noise or try to touch or feed them. These actions may stress them out and possibly threaten their survival.

If you still crave some animal interaction, you can pay a small fee to have a bunch of parrots eat out of your hands (or your head).

5. Triplet Falls

Arguably the nicest of all the waterfalls along the Great Ocean Road, the Triplet Falls feature wide pathways, tall fern trees, and unique cascading triplet falls falling side by side.

To get there, you need to hike for about 45 – 60 minutes through a fern forest. The trees were so tall and big that in the beginning, I thought they were oil palm trees that I was familiar with in my country.

The tall trees and ferns typically indicate a high-rainfall area, so make sure you wear sturdy hiking/walking shoes as the footpath can be slippery after rain.

6. The Twelve Apostles

For many people, the Twelve Apostles are their main or sole reason for visiting the Great Ocean Road.

The iconic rock stacks that protrude dramatically from the sea were formed more than 20 million years ago. Once part of the mainland, the limestone cliffs were eroded by the stormy Southern Ocean and gradually turned into caves, then arches, and finally collapsed, leaving the rock stacks behind, isolated from the shore.

Despite the name, there are now only 7 rock stacks still standing. Six of them are visible from the main viewing platform, while the seventh one is located several meters around the corner.

The rocks change color throughout the day. The best times for pictures are during sunrise and sunset, but most other photographers might have the same idea, so you probably won’t get the whole place to yourself. 

However, it’s worth noting that the place is the most crowded in the afternoon when the tour buses arrive. We arrived after sunset, and there was no one else around. Our photos turned out to be quite dark but the rock stacks were still visible.

There’s a boardwalk that takes you along the best viewpoints of the Apostles. It’s about five minute’s walk away from the car park.

7. Lookout Points Along the Way

That was all that we had time for on our day trip to the Great Ocean Road. After the Twelve Apostles, we made our way back to Melbourne.

Even if you don’t have time to do the entire stretch, doing just a portion of the Great Ocean Road is still worth it. You’ll be guaranteed great views all the way, with many viewpoints to stop at for pictures.

Other Highlights on the Great Ocean Road

If you have more than one day, here are some other things you can see on the Great Ocean Road:

1. Beauchamp Falls

We had passed the Beauchamp Falls but had to skip them because they would take a long time to get to (about 1.5 hours’ steep hike from the car park). The 20-metre falls are hidden by a thick forest of ferns, mountain ash, and myrtle beech.

2. Loch Ard Gorge

A few minutes’ drive from the Twelve Apostles, you’ll find the Loch Ard Gorge, a popular stop with epic views and an interesting survival story of two teenagers who survived a shipwreck in 1878.

One of them was barely conscious at the gorge’s mouth before being rescued by the other. They then took shelter in a cave near the gorge before the stronger of the two barehandedly climbed the crumbling 11-metre-high cliffs to seek help. The gorge was later named after the sunken ship.

3. Thunder Cave

The Thunder Cave — which can be accessed from the Loch Ard Gorge car park — is a narrow gorge and cave that the ocean smashes into and makes a great splash, as well as a thunderous sound, hence the name.

A short walk from the cave, you can find the beach where the Sherbrook River meets the Southern Ocean and you will be awed by the beauty and force of nature.

However, do take extreme caution and keep a safe distance from the edge, as freak waves as high as 4 metres can occur at random. There’s also a permanent rip tide here, which makes the beach extremely unsafe to swim or wade in.

4. Gibson Steps

The Gibson Steps are steps that lead down to the beach, giving you a different perspective of the Twelve Apostles. They were once hand-carved into the cliffs but have since been replaced by concrete steps with safety railings.

This is one of the few places in the area that allow proper beach access, but do check whether the steps are open before you go. They’re sometimes closed if there had been any fallen debris from the clifftop.

5. The Grotto

As the cliffs fell away, they left a window in the rock wall, through which you can see a beautiful sinkhole, with the ocean in the background. To get to the grotto, you need to go down steep stairs. 

6. The London Bridge

The Australian version of the London Bridge is actually an offshore limestone archway that was once connected to the mainland. As though fulfilling the prophecy of the London Bridge song, this archway did fall down in 1990, leaving two tourists trapped on the remaining arch and having to be rescued by a helicopter.

7. Bay of Islands

About 25 minutes away from the Twelve Apostles is the Bay of Islands, which is another collection of limestone rock stacks. Much like the Twelve Apostles, the bay also looks its best at sunset and has a boardwalk along the coastlines. The scenery offered here is almost similar to the one at the Apostles, but with a much smaller crowd.   

8. Bay of Martyrs

Although not as impressive as the nearby lookout points, the Bay of Martyrs is a great place for escaping the crowds. It is also one of the few places where you can walk down to the beach to enjoy a scenic stroll.

9. Hopetoun Falls

Another one of the many waterfalls along the Great Ocean Road, the 30-metre-high Hopetoun Falls are located in the Great Otway National Park, about 4 kilometres south of the Beauchamp Falls. You can either stay on the upper platform or get a closeup view by descending 200 stairs to the base of the falls.

10. Cape Otway Lighthouse

Dating back to 1848, this lighthouse is 15 minutes away from the Great Ocean Road and provides excellent views of the rugged cliffs. For $19.50, you get to tour the lighthouse, hear the story of tragic shipwrecks, discover Australia’s extraordinary secret war history from WWII, and understand the local indigenous culture.

You also have the option of staying overnight in the historic lightkeeper’s accommodation. The Lightkeeper’s Kitchen serves an array of tasty homemade fare, including freshly baked scones and locally roasted coffee.

Cape Otway Lighthouse is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

11. Otway Rainforest Canopy

A short detour from the Great Ocean Road will take you to the Otway Rainforest Canopy, where you can take an hour-long 25-metre-high treetop walk amongst the giant myrtle beech, mountain ash, and blackwood trees.

You can also climb the spiral staircase to the canopy viewing platform, or — if that’s not adventurous enough for you — go ziplining.

12. Californian Redwood Forest

Not only does the Great Ocean Road have the London Bridge, it also has a Californian Redwood Forest! The 85-year old forest is a leftover from the logging industry that used to take place there in the 1930s. Now, the the trees have grown into 60-metre-tall giants.

Surrounded by dense ferns and local trees, the enchanting Otways Californian Redwood Forest is one of Victoria’s best kept secrets.

13. The Beaches on the Great Ocean Road

When in Australia, do as the Australians do and go to the beach — because why visit a country with 34,000 kilometres of coastline if you’re not going to go to the beach, right?

But be sure to check whether the beach is safe for swimming before you dip in. Stick to those with lifeguards, and swim between the red and yellow flags. Some of the safe beaches along the Great Ocean Road are:

• Torquay –  Calm waters, surrounded by pine trees. Patrolled by lifeguards in summer.
• Jan Juc – Fringed by dramatic cliffs. Patrolled in summer.
• Anglesea – Wide sandy beach and calm waters. Patrolled in Summer.
• Lorne – 2-kilometre-long sandy beach with many trendy cafes and bars.
• Apollo Bay – Crescent shaped beach with protected waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
• Port Campbell – The sheltered beach at the town of Port Campbell is one of the few in the area that are safe for swimming. 

How Long to Spend on the Great Ocean Road

If you’re short of time, it’s possible to visit the Great Ocean Road on a day trip like I did, and still manage to see quite a few places. Start early in the morning to get the most out of your trip.

However, do bear in mind that it will be a long drive. Unless you really love driving long-distance, you might want to go with someone with whom you can take turns driving. Or consider taking a tour so that you’ll be able to sit back the entire trip and enjoy the views.

To see all of these attractions without feeling rushed, it’s recommended to spend at least 3 days and 2 nights..

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

For those who are planning to spend more than one day on the Great Ocean Road, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. If you’re on a budget, you can even camp at the many free campsites and serviced holiday parks along the route, where you can pitch a tent or park your campervan.

Apollo Bay, Lorne, and Port Campbell are good locations to stay at. Apollo Bay is close to forests and waterfalls, Port Campbell is near to the Twelve Apostles and other coastal rock formations, while Lorne is a cool town on its own.

• Beachcomber Motel & Apartment (Apollo Bay) – Only 5 minutes’ walk from Apollo Bay Beach and the Apollo bay Golf Club, this motel features a beautiful garden with a sheltered barbecue area. All rooms are heated and come with a TV, a refrigerator, and a tea/coffee maker. Some also have a kitchenette, a fireplace and spa bath. From AUD 90 for a Double Motel Room.
• Sow & Piglets Guesthouse (Port Campbell) – This award-winning hostel is a 10-minute drive from the Twelve Apostles and a 3-minute walk from the beach. Available on site is a shared kitchen, a microbrewery and a bar. From AUD 35 for a bed in an 8-bed mixed dormitory room. 
• Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park (Lorne) – Perfect for budget travelers, this campsite provides shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a children’s playground, and a terrace with BBQ facilities. Located along the Erskine River, 400 metres from Loutit Bay Beach and 10 minutes’ walk from Lorne, it also offers access to the Erskine Falls. From AUD 52 for a spot at the campsite. Tent and cabin options (with private bathrooms) are also available. 
• Captains by the Bay (Apollo Bay)  – Less than 5 minutes’ walk from restaurants and shops, and 15 minutes’ walk from Apollo Bay Harbor. Each room comes with a private bathroom, LCD TV and DVD player. From AUD 140 for a Studio Room. 
• Port Campbell Parkview Motel & Apartments  (Port Campbell) – Located on a quiet street, 5 minutes’ walk away from the beach. Each apartment and studio features a balcony or patio with ocean or garden views, a fully-equipped kitchen/kitchenette, and a private bathroom. From AUD 140 for a suite. 

Mantra Lorne (Lorne) – Equipped with an indoor heated swimming pool, 4 tennis courts, a croquet lawn, a gym, a spa, and an 18-hole putting, this resort is the only property in Lorne that has direct access to the beach. From AUD 178 for a Classic Double/Twin Room, with breakfast.   

• Apollo Bay Guest House (Apollo Bay)  – Set in landscaped gardens with a sunny terrace only 200 metres from Apollo Bay Beach, this property features a lounge with a fireplace, antique furniture and French decor, From AUD 290 for a Queen Room with Ocean View, including breakfast.
• Southern Ocean Villas (Port Campbell) –  Located on the edge of the Port Campbell National Park, the Southern Ocean Villas offer private patios with garden views, a fully equipped kitchen, and a barbecue area with outdoor seating. From AUD 230 for a Standard 3-bedroom villa. 
• Pierview Apartments (Lorne) – A stylish apartment hotel with gorgeous ocean views, only a 10-minute walk from Lorne Beach. From AUD 340 for a 2-bedroom apartment.  

Additional Tips for Visiting the Great Ocean Road

• If you choose to self-drive, remember that Australia drives on the  left-hand side  of the road. There are road signs reminding tourists of this, which shows that it is a common problem.
• Most of the best attractions on the Great Ocean Road are in the Port Campbell National Park , so if you don’t have time to see everything, try to focus your time here.
• It is best to drive from east to west , starting in Torquay. This way, you’ll be driving on the ocean side of the road, which gives you better views and easier access to viewpoints.
• The most scenic leg of the route is between Lorne and Apollo Bay.
• When planning your itinerary, bear in mind that the journey may take longer than you expect because of the many curves on the road, as well as the many photo opportunities that you may want to stop for.
• Avoid driving after dark if you’re not used to the area. The roads are unlit and there’s always the danger of accidents involving wildlife.

• Australian authorities are very strict on the use of seat belts both for drivers and passengers. Child car seats are mandatory for children aged 7 years and below.
• Using your phone (including taking photos or videos) while driving is illegal, even at traffic lights or stop signs. If you need to use your phone, the law requires you to pull over.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes . You’ll be doing some walking to get to the waterfalls.
• Stay hydrated — bring enough drinking water, especially in the summer months.
• Don’t forget to put on sunscreen !

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Great Ocean Road

If you’re in Melbourne, a visit to the Great Ocean Road is something that shouldn’t be missed, especially for those who love road trips, beaches, forests, and dramatic cliff views. Many of the attractions along the Great Ocean Road are just a short drive from one another, so even if you’ve only got one day to spare, you’ll still see quite a lot.

Just remember to be respectful of the places you visit and their inhabitants, and above all, do not underestimate the power of nature. Stay safe!

Have you ever been to the Great Ocean Road? What was your favorite part about it? Share your experience in the comment section below.

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40 comments.

I suka you punya travel blog, its like really a travel journal and senang orang nak refer in case they want to visit next time. Keep it up sis!

Thank you so much, Zayani. Glad you enjoy my blog. Comments like yours keep me going. 🙂

baca your post i feel like rinduuu sangat nak travel. boleh bookmark post ni manatau after ni ada rezeki nak kesini

Ok, bookmark ya, Bae. And you’re not alone — I tulis post ni pun I sendiri rasa rindu nak travel. Haha.

I haven’t been to Melbourne yet. But it is always in my wish list. Insya’Allah I will travel there someday. Thank you for sharing this good post. Love your pictures.

Thank you, Fadima. I hope you’ll get to travel to Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road someday. 🙂

I was in Melbourne to visit a friend who studied there, but she had never mentioned the Great Open Road during my visit. It was either she also did not know about it or it slipped her mind. Hehe

It must have slipped her mind, I’m sure, Rawlins. Or perhaps she’s just not into long drives. Haha. Coz I don’t think it would be possible for anyone living in Melbourne to not know about the Great Ocean Road. 😀

Wow, such a wonderful experience. Siap senarai tempat penginapan tu. Rasanya kalau ada yang nak ke sana mmg mudah refer kat entri u ni.

Thanks, Dik Bee. Nanti boleh la bookmark page ni atau share pada siapa-siapa yang bercadang untuk ke Australia selepas Covid berakhir nanti. 🙂

Huhuhu rindu pulak nak travel bila baca entry ni n tgok gambar2 semua ni. Hope dapatlah sis travel ke sana lagi

Ya, harap tak lama lagi dapatlah kita travel semula macam sediakala. 🙂

Great article with full information. Moga cepat covid ni reda so that leh teroka

Thank you, Min. Sama-samalah kita doakan, ya. 🙂

Wahhh, you make me wanna go there now! Tapi apakah dayakan! Will keep this as my reference! I have cousins stayed at Adelaide! Maybe can take few weeks off to enjoy the road trip when i visit them!

Sounds like a great plan, Kitkat! 😀

Banyaknye laut dan waterfalls yang boleh dikunjungi kat sini.bestnye dapat tengok koala

Ya, Marina. Memang banyak benda boleh buat sepanjang the Great Ocean Road Australia ni. Kalau pergi sehari je memang padat itinerari.

Umi mesti rindu giler nak travel kann… sebab dah biaa travel sana sini.. kalau baca balik semua posting mesti teruja.. i pun rindu sama huhuhu one day nak gak sampai Melbourne…

Memang la rindu, sis. Tapi nak buat macam mana kan, tunggu je la keadaan kembali pulih. Saya harap sis pun dapat sampai ke Melbourne juga satu hari nanti. 🙂

Aduihhh rindu betul nak jalan dekat sini. Memang tak puas. Sebab sepanjang perjalanan memang kita akan dihidangkang dengan pemandangan yang sangat cantik. Kalau boleh semua tempat menarik nak stop ambik gambar tapi sebab plan pergi balik hari jadi hanya cover tempat2 yang penting jer.

Ya, Saidila. Kalau nak betul-betul puas, memang kena spend at least 1 atau dua malam kat sini, baru la tak rushing dan dapat singgah semua tempat. Tapi kalau pergi balik hari pun tak bermaksud tak enjoy, kan. Sebab dari awal sampai akhir perjalanan ni memang viewnya cantik-cantik.

wow the koala bear so cute, in love betul… suka lah tengok view scenery di situ.. so best dapat kesana before the mco ahahhh cepatlah habis dunia kopig ni nak ke sana ke sini lol

Ya, Syafiera. Memang comel koala tu. Tapi kerja diorang tido je. Haha. Kalau di petting zoo, kita boleh pegang2. Kat sini tak boleh. Tapi perasaan dia lain sikit la bila dapat tengok sendiri haiwan-haiwan ni di habitat semulajadi mereka. 🙂

Everytime baca blog ummi mesti Yaya rindu nak travel. Rasa menyesal pulak tak banyak tangkap gambar masa travel dulu

Sama la kita, Yaya. Saya pun rasa menyesal dulu tak ambil gambar dan video banyak2. Kalau tak dah boleh buat banyak YouTube video. Haha. Sekarang ni tak tau bila boleh pergi lagi.

i have seen so many beautiful photos of the 12 Apostles, but never knew they were one of the stops along this epic drive. i have been wanting to see them in person one day, and now feel even more motivated to do this whole drive.

I hope you will, Shelley! The 12 Apostles are pretty impressive but there are also lots of other attractions you will see along the route. 😀

Wow so many great places to visit. I love the waterfall and the amount of wildlife that exists. Also, the temperatures are pretty perfect!

It was quite chilly for me in September, but then again I come from Southeast Asia. Other people might find Australian temperatures pretty mild. Haha. But you’re right, there are so many waterfalls and wildlife along that road. 😀

Great post, love all these details for driving the Great Ocean Road. I drove a portion of it a few years back, but I would really love to return and do more. Thanks for this inspo!

You’re welcome, Erin! Glad to have inspired you to go again. 😀

Wow! What a great road trip idea! I am definitely adding this to my travel list!

You definitely should, Mykalee. I hope you’ll get to experience the Great Ocean Road someday 🙂

I was surprised to learn that Otways Californian Redwood Forest is there! What a special find. Your blog post is comprehensive and has something for every kind of adventure in the area.

Thank you, Vanessa! I hope it will be useful when you’re planning a trip to the Great Ocean Road someday. 🙂

I love this great ocean road itinerary from Melbourne! We did a part coast part inland drive from Sydney to Melbourne but not this one. I found another London Bridge lookout in Point Nepean near Sorrento! I am bookmarking your itinerary for future plans. 🙂

Thank you, Jan! And thanks for sharing your experience as well. That sounds interesting — I must look for it if I ever make the journey from Sydney to Melbourne in the future. 😀

wah bestnya melbourne. khai takde rezeki lagi untuk ke luar dari asia lagi.mostly semua makin dekat2 je paling jauh pun tak silap taiwan hahaha . bila lah pkp ni akan berakhir

Ok la tu, Khai. Kat benua Asia ni saja dah terlalu banyak tempat menarik. Taiwan pun saya pernah pergi sekali saja, ke Taipei. 🙂

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Great Ocean Road Guide

Unofficial Guide to Australia's favourite Coast Road

Touring the Great Ocean Road: Self Drive Itineraries, Tips & More

Driving the Great Ocean Road is one of the top tourist attractions in Australia and undoubtedly one of the most incredible road trips on the planet. But it’s not one you can just hop in the car and drive (especially in the height of summer when seaside towns and campsites are likely to be booked out and the main tourist attractions such as the Twelve Apostles are overrun with snap-happy visitors!) And that’s why it’s great that you’ve found this page.

Disclaimer: Almost all posts on this site contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on any of the links in our guide to Touring the Great Ocean Road – Itineraries for Driving the Great Ocean Road, Driving & Travel Tips & More (and make a booking) we may receive a small commission at absolutely no cost to you . Each post is carefully crafted to (hopefully!) answer all your questions and recommendations are made where we believe they will improve your trip and help with your planning. As such we thank you in advance should you decide to click, buy or book. Read our full Disclosure here .

Touring the Great Ocean Road: Self Drive Itineraries, Routes, Tips & FAQs about the Great Ocean Road

Table of Contents

Tips for Driving the Great Ocean Road

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• Plan your route + Book Accommodation in Advance From the attractions you want to see, to the towns you plan to stop in and the places you hope to stay. Having your route planned will make sure you don’t miss out on any of your must-sees; and pre-booking your accommodation means you won’t have to scramble for a bed when you arrive in town (and is ABSOLUTELY necessary during busy periods.)
• Give yourself plenty of time & Don’t Rush Timing provided by map apps may not be as accurate as you might think (although Google gets pretty close these days!). Take the estimated time and add and extra 20-30 minutes.
• Respect the speed limit. The official limit on the B100 (the Great Ocean Road) is between 80-100km per hour; in towns between 50-70km/h, and when there is traffic and during busy periods, as low as 30km/h. There are also speed traps to catch those not sticking to the limits with fines up to (and above) $300AUD. Don’t be an idiot.
• DRIVE ON THE LEFT  Simple. All cars in Australia drive on the left and the Great Ocean Rd is no different.
• Use the slow lane turnouts to allow faster drivers/vehicles to pass  Unfortunately, not everyone on the Great Ocean Road is out for a leisurely drive, and some idiots think that it’s a racetrack. If someone is tailgating you, stay calm, stick to the speed limit and use the slow lane turnouts to allow other vehicles to pass. Likewise, if you are travelling by campervan or with a caravan at a safe, but reduced, speed, please use the turnouts to allow regular vehicles to pass safely.
• Know where the petrol stations are (see the map further down the page!) Whilst there are several petrol stations on the Great Ocean Rd, they are often small and due to their remote location charge slightly higher prices than those in nearby cities. Try and start will a full tank from Torquay if you are watching the budget.

• Prepare for the conditions The Great Ocean Road winds along the Victorian coast with lots of twists & turns (which can be quite challenging to the uninitiated) before heading inland and through the Otway rainforest. During the winter, the Otways can be wet, foggy, and quite dark when you are beneath the canopy; and in summer, the light streaming through along with the twists and turns has been known to make some people (including me) carsick.
• Pack for all 4 Seasons Regardless of the time of year you decide to go touring the Great Ocean Road, be sure to pack for 4 seasons. The coastal drive is subject to a typically Melbourne phenomenon where you can see 4 seasons in one day due to how quickly weather systems move through the area. That means you need to be prepared for any weather – from bathers and beachwear through to fleeces and waterproofs.
• Stay alert for Wildlife  The Surf Coast, Cape Otway National Park and the Shipwreck Coast are home to an abundance of wildlife. From koala’s to kookaburras, wombats to echidnas and of course, kangaroos – and they can appear at any time. (And if you want more ‘guaranteed’ wildlife sightings, we recommend Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve near Warrnambool)
• Take your Trash With You  This one shouldn’t need to be said, but don’t litter. Keep any trash you create (or even find) in your vehicle and get rid of it at an appropriate refuse point – which may be your accommodation, campsite or even your own home on your return.

Obviously, there are so many more Great Ocean Road Attractions and Things to Do (like the Otway Fly, Rainforest Tours and other outdoor activities); and plenty of seaside towns to stop and explore  – but every itinerary should include the above highlights as essential stops. See our Great Ocean Road Self Drive Trips and Itineraries below.

• 1 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary – for those who are very short on time, this is the Great Ocean Road touring route for you – although we caution against it due to the pressure it puts on people. If you only have one day we recommend joining a Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne which will take away the stress of driving, and allow you to enjoy the best the Great Ocean Road has to offer with the help of a tour guide. There’s Ocean Road sunset tours, reverse tours to avoid the crowds and more – read our guide to the 10 BEST Great Ocean Road Day Trips and find your perfect day tour.
• 2-3 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary – the most popular choice for international tourists who are trying to pack a lot into their Australia vacation
• 4-5 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary – for the traveller with a little more time and want’s to have the most incredible road trip whilst hitting as many Great Ocean Road attractions as possible.

Great Ocean Road Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Most organised tours travel from Torquay westbound to Port Campbell (or slightly further to show guests The Grotto and London Arch – formerly London Bridge until it’s collapse in 1990) and return to Melbourne inland via Colac; reverse tours take the inland route to Port Campbell and generally start at the 12 Apostles.

The Great Ocean Road is 243km (148 miles) long. It weaves along the coast for most of the distance, cutting through the Otway Rainforest Canopy and Great Otway National Park between Apollo Bay and Princetown.

The drive from Melbourne CBD to the beginning of the road at Torquay is 104.5km (65 miles) which takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to drive (depending on traffic).

If you started in Torquay and drove all the way to Allensford in one hit with no breaks, it would take around 4 – 4.5 hours. But please don’t! There are so many beautiful places to see and fun things to do that you would completely miss if all you did was drive the Great Ocean Road as fast as you could!

Also if you are planning to depart and return to Melbourne, that’s an extra couple of hours travel time each way to add to the day. Be sure to set off as early as you can to miss as much city centre traffic as possible, take snacks, and be prepared to arrive back late.

We would also recommend you consider turning your sightseeing tour into a Great Ocean Road in reverse trip (driving the inland route and starting at Port Campbell) – that way you will see as much of incredible rock formations of Port Campbell National Park (12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, The Arch (formerly London Bridge) etc) and the Bay of Islands in daylight and without having to worry about the sun going down.

As the premier southern touring route in the country, most people take between 2-4 days to complete the coastal drive. In doing so they enjoy plenty of iconic Great Ocean Road experiences such as waterfall chasing , wild koala & kangaroo spotting, relaxing on beaches and dining out in cute holiday towns (to name a few!)

Shoulder Season: September – November & March – May The crowds are smaller, the weather is fair to good and there is a higher chance of spotting wildlife with the reduced foot traffic. Visiting between September and November is also the best time to experience the waterfalls in Otway National Park as they are typically in full flow and experiencing the run-off following the winter months.

Low season: June – August During winter, the weather can be varied (much like Melbourne which is known for showcasing 4 seasons in day no matter the time of year!), the traffic is less chaotic and everything is less expensive. This is also the only time of year that you have a chance to watch the southern right whales during their migration.

• Logans Beach in Warrnambool is home to Victoria’s southern right whale nursery, where Female southern right whales return to the nursery for weeks to calve and allow the young to feed and gather strength for their journey back to the sub-Antarctic waters. (June to October)
• Portland is one Victoria’s premier whale watching destinations, with southern right whales visible off the coast from Cape Bridgewater to Narrawong (June to August)

The Great Ocean Road Victoria was built between 1919 and 1932 by returned soldiers to remember those that gave their lives fighting for freedom in World War I.

Ultimately, when driving the Great Ocean Road, you are driving on the largest war memorial in the world.

The Great Ocean Road was first planned during the end of WW1 when Country Roads Board chairman William Calder wanted to create jobs for returning soldiers. Surveying for the southern ocean road (tentatively titled the South Coast Road) started in 1918 with construction beginning in 1919.

Built by hand by more than 3,000 soldiers as a memorial to fellow soldiers and servicemen who had died in the war, the road took more than 10 years to complete and because of the dangerous nature of the work, which involved working with explosives, several workers were killed during its construction and the road has gone down in history as one of the most perilous projects of the 20 th  Century .

And that’s a wrap! We hope our guide to touring the Great Ocean Road – complete with driving tips, self drive itineraries and FAQs – will come in super handy when planning your trip.

READY MORE GREAT OCEAN ROAD TRAVEL INFORMATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE TRAVEL TIPS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES, TRAVEL GEAR GUIDES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OUR AMAZING COAST ROAD:

• Pet-Friendly Accommodation on the Great Ocean Road
• Beyond the Great Ocean Road: Things to do in Melbourne including day trips to Phillip Island for the family friendly Penguin Parade and some great Yarra Valley Tours for wine tasting!
• Foodie Finds: The Best Restaurants in Lorne
• The Top 100 Things to do in Australia featuring Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef, New South Wales’ Blue Mountains, Victorias’ Grampians national park, The Northern Territory’s’ Arnhem Land & more!

Hi There! Thanks for reading our Complete Guide to Touring The Great Ocean Road Australia – Self Drive Itineraries, Routes, Tips & FAQs about the Great Ocean Road .   I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here .

3 thoughts on “Touring the Great Ocean Road: Self Drive Itineraries, Tips & More”

Thanks for all the helpful information about driving the Great Ocean Road!

it all sounds so beautiful all i want to see is a beautiful sunrise and a beautiful sunset,and a few extra sites and some delicious food.

This is an informative and comprehensive guide to self-driving along the Great Ocean Road in Australia. The itinerary suggestions and tips provided are useful for anyone planning a road trip along this iconic route.

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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.

1 Day Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35

Your adventure on the spectacular Great Ocean Road awaits (and so do new mates) on this exclusive tour for 18 to 35s

1 Day Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35 Highlights

Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us!

Full-day bus tour, with loads of sight and wildlife

Tick the sights of the spectacular Great Ocean Road off your bucket list

Convenient pick-ups from selected Melbourne accommodation

Koalas, Kangaroos, native birds and any other animals we can find

Afternoon tea and coffee, a perfect little pick-up to sip while enjoying the views

An experienced, passionate guide to show you the amazing spots along the coast

Like-minded young travellers to make friends and memories with along the way

Reverse itinerary to avoid the crowds 

What to Expect

Frequently asked questions about 1 day great ocean road and wildlife tour for backpackers aged 18-35 expand all.

Can we get food on the day?

Yes! There will be a stop in the morning on the way to the 12 Apostles where you can get coffee, breakfast, snacks and whatever else you need. Then, stop again in Apollo Bay which has a wide variety of different food outlets like cafes, restaurants, pubs and takeaway.

Is there age restrictions?

Yes. This tour is strictly for 18 to 35s.

What is the return time?

The plan is to be back in the city between 7:pm and 7:30pm to start the drop offs, which of course can change if there are any hold-ups during the day for any reason and this may delay getting home.

What are the pick-up locations and times for this tour?

Summer House Melbourne, 109 Barkly St, St Kilda @ 6:40am

Nomads St Kilda (Base Backpackers) 17 Carlisle Street, St Kilda @ 6:45am

YHA Central, 562 Flinders Street, Melbourne @ 6:55am

Immigration Museum, Corner Flinders Street and Market Street, Melbourne @ 7:00am

Melbourne City Backpackers, 197 King Street, Melbourne @ 6:45am

The Village Hostel Melbourne, 167 Franklin Street, Melbourne @ 6:50am

Space Hotel, 380 Russell Street, Melbourne @ 6:55am

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Pickup Locations

• Base Backpackers, Carlisle St, St Kilda
• Cheap AZ Office
• Immigration Museum
• Melbourne Central YHA
• Melbourne City Backpackers

Great Ocean Road Tours

Best great ocean road tours & day trips.

1 Day Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Tour $109

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most spectacular and naturally stunning coastal drives. Join our sightseeing Great Ocean Road tour for a more comprehensive adventure along this impressive stretch of coast. Visit world famous surf beaches, hear the amazing stories of the Shipwreck Coast, splash about at Loch Ard Gorge of course visit the world-renowned 12 Apostles. In addition to all these best-known spots along the Great Ocean Road, this exciting new adventure includes a chance to see koalas in the wild.

Great Ocean Road Boutique Tour $128

Take a journey along the Great Ocean Road for spectacular coastal views, wildlife spotting and stops at quaint seaside towns on our small group boutique tour from Melbourne. Limited to only 10 travellers, this tour takes in all the highlights of the incredible scenic drive including the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and the Razorback. We’ll stop for lunch in the charming town of Port Campbell and call into Kennett River for some koala spotting, before a stop in trendy Lorne. Your guide will share fascinating historical anecdotes and facts about the area as you sit back, relax and take in the breathtaking views along the windy coastal road. It’s the perfect way to explore this iconic part of Victoria in one day!

Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour $149

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most popular tourist destinations. Operating during the summer months the Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour provides an experience that you will never forget with an amazing postcard backdrop for all your memories. Including world famous surf beaches, native Australian wildlife, an ancient rainforest and not forgetting the awe inspiring 12 Apostles at sunset. Do all of this and more on this Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour.

Great Ocean Road Private Tour

Get ready to discover some of Australia’s most spectacular natural scenery on our Great Ocean Road Private Tour! You’ll travel along this stunning stretch of road near Melbourne, passing surf beaches, country towns and impressive coastal cliffs. View wildlife including koalas and colourful parrots in their natural habitat and explore the lush Otway Rainforest via a guided bushwalk. In the afternoon, visit the Shipwreck Coast to admire the iconic 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and more. Travelling with a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll finish the day with a camera full of photos and unbeatable memories of an amazing day trip from Melbourne. Don’t miss out on this essential Melbourne experience!

2 Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour $575

Do you want to see the Grampians and the Great Ocean Road in one tour? You can, with this 2 Day Grampians and Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne. Experience all the natural treasures of our Great Ocean Road Tour including the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, the Otway Rainforest and much more. Spend overnight in Halls Gap, where you will have the chance to do some night-time kangaroo spotting. The Grampians National Park holds some of the most spectacular views in Victoria. It is a paradise of Australian flora and fauna. Visit waterfalls, scenic lookouts and learn all about the history of the Aboriginal tribes at the Brambuk Cultural Centre. This incredible Grampians and Great Ocean Road Tour is not to be missed.

2 Day Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne $299

If want to experience everything the Great Ocean Road has to offer, there is no better way than our 2 Day Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne. This tour includes everything in our 1 Day Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Tour plus much, much more. Spend a night at one of the Great Ocean Road's most picturesque towns 'Port Campbell' and have an experience of a lifetime visiting the 12 Apostles at Sunset. The following morning undertake a 12 Apostles Tour in the morning light for a totally different experience. Do yourself a favour and spend the extra time that this wonderful destination deserves on this 2 Day Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne.

Great Ocean Road in Reverse Tour $160

Explore the most iconic sights and spectacular landmarks of the Great Ocean Road on our 1 Day Great Ocean Road in Reverse Tour. Starting in the quaint township of Colac, followed by amazing shipwreck tales of the Loch Ard Gorge and its remarkable limestone cliffs. Marvel at the beautiful scenery of the world-famous 12 Apostles before the other travelers arrive, allowing you to breathe in the magnificent views of this region. Spots some of the native Australian koalas at Kennett River and enjoy hand feeding some of the colourful birds who calls this place home! Be dwarfed by the ancient trees surrounding this region, as you stroll past the Otway Rainforest. Do all of this and more on this Great Ocean Road in Reverse Tour.

2 Day Great Ocean Road & Phillip Island Tour $495

Combining the two most popular day tours that Melbourne has to offer into one tour, this Phillip Island and Great Ocean Road Tour is rich with untouched scenery, rugged coastlines and the very best of Australian wildlife. Stroll world famous beaches, learn the tragic history that is the 'shipwreck coast' and look upon the giant 12 Apostles in awe, the Great Ocean Road is one of Victoria's most cherished attractions. Get up close and friendly with some Australian animals at Phillip Island Koala Reserve. The second day of this 2 Day Phillip Island and Great Ocean Road Tour is a wildlife wonderland. And not to forget the world-famous Penguin Parade, where hundreds of little penguins cross the beach after sunset to return to the safety of their burrows. This magical procession is one that will never be forgotten.

Phillip Island Tours

Phillip Island, located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, is a breathtaking destination boasting stunning coastal views, fascinating heritage, and a diverse range of Australian wildlife. There are plenty of attractions to explore, including the Koala Conservation Centre, the Nobbies Centre, the Chocolate Factory, and the famous Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. However, the highlight of any visit is undoubtedly the Penguin Parade, where visitors can witness the world's tiniest penguins in their natural habitat. These adorable creatures can be seen waddling up the beach to their homes in the sand dunes, and the experience of watching them is truly magical. Overall, a trip to Phillip Island is an unforgettable adventure and one of the top Melbourne tours available.

Melbourne City Tours

Melbourne is known for its mix of culture, excitement, sport, art and shopping. Get familiar with Melbourne on one of our city tours. Experience Melbourne with one of our expert guides that will show you all the hot spots and no matter what your interests are they are sure to be entertains by one of the world's most liveable cities. By choosing one of our Melbourne City Tours you will get the chance to take in the views of the city on a Melbourne River Cruise on the Yarra. Melbourne City Tours start from an amazing $65. Book your spot with us today!

Great Ocean Road 2-Day Itinerary: The BEST Self Drive Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: April 9, 2024

Are you planning a 2-day Great Ocean Road itinerary, but not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place!

The Great Ocean Road is one of those dream destinations that you always hear about but never think you could actually visit one day, kind of like Uluru or the Great Barrier Reef.

My Australia trip was all about ticking off dream destinations from my travel bucket list, and considering my best friend was based in Melbourne for 6-week for an internship, how could we not explore the Great Ocean Road?

We did a weekend road trip on the Great Ocean Road since she then had to be back at work Monday morning, and found it to be the perfect amount of time to see all the main stops on the Great Ocean Road.

This Great Ocean Road 2-day itinerary will show you all the best things to do and the best places to stop at when you do a Great Ocean Road self-drive road trip.

• 1 Our Great Ocean Road self drive itinerary
• 2 Great Ocean Road road trip – self drive or with a tour?
• 3.1 Set off from Melbourne early
• 3.2 Stop in Torquay
• 3.3 Visit Bells Beach
• 3.4 Great Ocean Road sign
• 3.5 Stop in Lorne for lunch
• 3.6 Erskine Falls
• 3.7 Sunset at the Twelve Apostles
• 3.8 Sleep in Apollo Bay
• 4.1 Hopetoun Falls
• 4.2 Triplet Falls
• 4.3 Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
• 4.4 Gibson Steps
• 4.5 Loch Ard Gorge
• 4.6 Sunset at Bay of Islands
• 4.7 Have dinner in Peterborough
• 4.8 Drive back to Melbourne
• 5 Some road trip essentials

Driving on the Great Ocean Road, Australia

Our Great Ocean Road self drive itinerary

Before jumping straight into the explanation of the best places to stop at during this road trip, I wanted to include a map of our Great Ocean Road self-drive itinerary and of the key attractions.

The geographer in me sometimes makes a come back and finds it easier to make sense of a trip or location if I have a map to look at.

The whole length of the Great Ocean Road is 664km, drivable in around 9.5 hours if you were to do it without stops. The itinerary I have outlined will take 2 days and is optimal for weekend trips.

| READ MORE: YOUR PERFECT AUSTRALIA BUCKET LIST |

Map of the Great Ocean Road attractions and our road trip route

Great Ocean Road road trip – self drive or with a tour?

I know this is a Great Ocean Road self-drive itinerary, but before diving into the meat of the itinerary, I wanted to give you some options for popular tours you can join.

Self-drive road trips aren’t for everyone. Whether you don’t like driving or don’t like having to plan itineraries, guided tours are a very common choice amongst many travellers.

Hence why there are so many Great Ocean Road tours from Melbourne. I have listed below some of the most popular, which I recommend joining if you don’t fancy driving.

From Melbourne: Ultimate 2-Day Great Ocean Road Tour   – This would be my top choice if I was joining a tour. It covers all the main stops in this itinerary, and includes accommodation during the trip.

You don’t have to worry about getting around, booking accommodation or where to eat. Everything is arranged for you, just sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the Great Ocean Road!

Click here to see prices and availability for a 2-day Great Ocean Road tour!

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip – Personally, I recommend spending at least one night on the Great Ocean Road, as there are so many cool things to do.

However, if you don’t have long in your Australia itinerary, you can also discover it on a day trip. This is the most popular and highly reviewed one online, so you can trust they know what they’re doing.

Click here to book your Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne!

Getting up close to Hopetoun Falls, Great Otway National Park, Australia

Great Ocean Road itinerary – Day 1

Set off from melbourne early.

We woke up bright and early on Saturday morning, as we had to pick up our rental car in Melbourne first and we knew it could take some time.

Once we had all the paperwork sorted we hit the road with our rental car, excited to finally be enroute to the Great Ocean Road.

Stop in Torquay

Torquay is a small seaside town that is also the official start of the Great Ocean Road. We drove through the town and went straight to the esplanade to enjoy the beach vibes.

We were there in April, which is the Aussie autumn so the beaches weren’t too busy, however if you’re visiting in summer be ready to find them packed with surfers and beach goers.

I would have loved to do a surf class somewhere along the Great Ocean Road, but it wasn’t really the right season and we were a bit short on time.

If you’re visiting in summer and want to spend more time by the sea than chasing waterfalls inland, definitely add some surf time to your itinerary.

Click here to book your surf class in Torquay!

Epic views along the Great Ocean Road, Australia

Visit Bells Beach

Pretty soon after you set off from Torquay you will come across Bells Beach, a world famous surfing spot.

Bells Beach hosts every year since 1962 the Rip Curl Pro, the world’s longest running surfing competition. It’s a pretty big destinations for surfers basically.

For non surfers you can walk along the edge of the cliffs on the wooden walkways and watch the surfers on the waves far below, or head down the steep steps and walk along the beach.

Even if you don’t surf it’s still a very scenic beach and a lovely spot for a walk.

Bell’s Beach, Australia

Great Ocean Road sign

Because an iconic road trip wouldn’t really be quite as iconic without a big sign to point it out right? 

The Great Ocean Road is often considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world , and it’s easy to see why! After this sign, you officially start your road trip along this iconic road!

There’s a small parking area close to it, I guess they knew people would want photos of it and prepared accordingly!

There’s also a path that will take you to the beach if you want to go for a dip in the sea or just walk on the beach.

The Great Ocean Road sign

Stop in Lorne for lunch

Lorne is a small town along the Great Ocean Road and the perfect spot to stop for lunch after a morning of driving.

Along the Great Ocean Road and seaside you will find a row of cute coffee shops, restaurants and pubs with outdoors seating space.

We parked close to the sea and wandered around for a bit until eventually settling on a classic Aussie burger for lunch.

If you’re not in a rush you can spend some more time wandering around the town and shops before hitting the road again.

Erskine Falls

Wherever I go, if the location allows it, I love to go waterfall chasing. The areas that surround the Great Ocean Road are full of forests, national parks and waterfalls that you can explore.

Since we only had two days we decided to focus on the ones that we thought seemed most spectacular. For our first day on the Great Ocean Road we went to Erskine Falls; a 30-metre waterfall that cascades into a deep gully.

There are two viewing platforms, one at the top of the falls that gives you a view over the falls and river below, and the other at the base.

The walk to the base is pretty steep but not unreasonably long, we found that it wasn’t too challenging physically.

We were there in dry season so unfortunately there wasn’t much water falling, but it was a pretty stunning surrounding nonetheless.

Erskine Falls in Australia

Sunset at the Twelve Apostles

The Twelve Apostles are probably one of the most iconic sights in Australia and on the Great Ocean Road. The Twelve Apostles are huge limestone formations just off the shore of Port Campbell National Park.

Their proximity to each other and the coast is what makes it so particular and attractive to the hundreds of tourists that come every day to visit it. It’s an especially popular sunset spot.

Since we left Erskine Falls quite late and were afraid we would miss the sunset we actually decided to drive inland and not on the Great Ocean Road (not the most coherent decision for a Great Ocean Road trip!) but the road is considerably shorter and saved us loads of time, allowing us to arrive in time for sunset.

Sunset at the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell National Park, Australia

There is a parking lot just by the Twelve Apostles from which you can then easily walk to the viewing platforms.

There is a long wooden walkway dotted with viewing decks so that you can enjoy the view from different parts of the coast.

It was extremely busy when we visited so if you want to get a good spot to take photos, make sure to get there well before sunset.

If instead of doing a self-drive overnight trip you decide to join a tour, make sure to join a tour like this Full-Day Sunset Tour . Sunset at the Twelve Apostles is one of the highlights of this road trip, you don’t want to miss it!

Click here to book your Great Ocean Road Full-Day Sunset Tour from Melbourne!

Sleep in Apollo Bay

Once the sun was done we set off and drove back on the Great Ocean Road to Apollo Bay, where we stayed for the night.

Apollo Bay is one of the most popular stops and main towns on the Great Ocean Road so you will find a lot of other backpackers and road trippers like you at the pubs and restaurants.

The town itself isn’t huge, with only one main road of bars and restaurants, which makes it easy to find somewhere to stop for dinner.

There are lots of great AirBnbs on the Great Ocean Road , which are perfect if you’re travelling with friends. We slept at the BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park .

We had a cute little bungalow with an outdoors patio area. The bungalow was spacious, clean and in a great location to continue our Great Ocean Road adventures. It’s perfect also for families.

Check out the latest prices and availability at the BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park!

Great Ocean Road itinerary – Day 2

Hopetoun falls.

We set off from Apollo Bay early in the morning as we had another packed day ahead of us.

We made it to Hopetoun Falls, the first stop of our day, by 8AM and were pleasantly surprised to find we were the only ones there.

The walk from the parking lot is pretty steep but it’s an easy trail, with wooden steps in the steepest parts.

When you make it to the bottom you will find a viewing platform from which you can look up and admire the three jets that form this waterfall.

Hopetoun Falls is probably one of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve seen, and the fact we were the only ones there added to the beauty of it.

Hopetoun Falls, Great Otway National Park, Australia

Triplet Falls

As you may have imagined by now, we kind of had a thing for waterfalls on this trip.

A short 15-minute drive from Hopetoun Falls you will find Triplet Falls. Triplet Falls, as the name suggests, is a group of three waterfalls that you can visit in the Great Otway National Park.

There is a walking trail that starts at the parking lot, takes you to see all the three waterfalls and return via a loop to the parking lot.

The whole walk is very picturesque, even when you’re not approaching the waterfalls but just walking through the woods. The whole walk will probably take you around one hour.

Triplet Falls in the Great Otway National Park, Australia

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

There isn’t too much driving involved this morning, since after visiting these two epic waterfalls you can head straight to Otway Fly Treetop Adventures , a short drive away from Triplet Falls.

This is an area of the Great Otway National Park where you can see up close the treetops of this rainforest, whether it’s with the treetop walk or with a zipline tour.

We settled for the treetop walk as we didn’t have time for the full zip-lining tour (it lasts 2.5 hours).

We did the rainforest and treetop walk which is around 2km and takes around 1 hour to complete. The entry ticket is 25 AUD.

The treetop walk at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, Otway Natural Park, Australia

All throughout the walk there are signs with information about the local flora and fauna, while they are geared more towards children they are still interesting to read while doing the walk.

The walkway goes up to 25m getting you up close to the tree tops, if you’re a bit scared of heights you might not want to look down!

There is also a coffee shop where you can have lunch after all the walking around of the morning and before you hit the road again.

Click here to book your discounted zip-line experience at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures!

The treetop walk at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, Great Otway National Park, Australia

Gibson Steps

Gibson Steps is one of those spots where you can get off the cliffs and down to the beach. There are 86 steps that descend the 70m of the cliffside.

The steps are quite steep and narrow but it’s not a particularly challenging walk down (the walk up on the other hand is slightly tougher).

Even if it was too cold to swim in the sea (and with waves that big I would have avoided it regardless) the beach is very pretty and with the towering cliffs behind it makes for a very picturesque location for a walk on the beach.

Going down the famous Gibson Steps

Loch Ard Gorge

After the Twelve Apostles one of the most famous stops on the Great Ocean Road is Loch Ard Gorge. We drove there straight from Gibson Steps which are a short 5-minute drive away along the sea.

From the parking lot of Loch Ard Gorge there are multiple wooden walkways that take you to different spots along the coast so that you can enjoy the view over the cliffs from different angles.

My personal favourite was the walk down to the beach inside Loch Ard Gorge, since being at the base of these huge cliffs really has a way of making you feel small.

The view over Loch And Gorge from the viewing platforms, Australia

Inside Loch Ard Gorge, Great Ocean Road, Australia

Sunset at Bay of Islands

Since one epic sunset over the sea and staggering cliffs isn’t enough, I figured it was best to add another one in this weekend itinerary.

The Bay of Islands isn’t as famous as the Twelve Apostles however it has nothing to envy to its more popular neighbour.

The Bay of Islands is still a part of the Port Campbell National Park and is a short 30-minute drive away from Loch Ard Gorge along the Great Ocean Road.

From the parking lot it’s a short walk to the viewing platforms, which you’ll find considerably less busy than the Twelve Apostles.

There’s a whole trail set out with wooden boards that you can walk along to enjoy the sunset from different spots along the coast.

Sunset over the Bay of Islands, Australia

Have dinner in Peterborough

The sun has set and it’s time to get ready for heading back home, but not before one last stop on the Great Ocean Road.

We stopped for dinner in Peterborough as it’s very close to the Bay of Islands and has lots of good choices for restaurants and pubs.

The town is also very picturesque with a chilled vibe if you want to walk around and explore after dinner.

Drive back to Melbourne

We chose to drive back to Melbourne via the inland route, as it’s considerably quicker than on the Great Ocean Road along the coast.

We figured since we’d spent the weekend road tripping along the Great Ocean Road and we’d seen all the main highlights, we could avoid the scenic route on the way back.

If you’re trying to get back to Melbourne at a reasonable time on Sunday night so that you can go to work on Monday morning, I would recommend this approach and itinerary.

If you’re not in a rush to get back to Melbourne and want to explore more of Australia, you can easily continue your road trip to South Australia!

Just continue driving on to the Limestone Coast and continue your Aussie adventure!

Exploring the Great Otway National Park, Australia

Some road trip essentials

Before ending this post I thought I’d include some information to help you plan a road trip in Australia and essential items that I like to bring on every road trip with me (or just any trip in general).

Some essentials that never miss from my suitcase include:

Fast drying towel : I like to carry a fast drying towel with me because whether I decide to go for a surf and swim in the sea, or the hostel doesn’t provide one I prefer to have one always on me.

They dry super quick and take up little space so they’re easy to carry around.

Reusable water bottle : There’s a lot of walking around involved in this itinerary, so you want to make sure you stay well hydrated throughout the two days.

Since tap water is drinkable in Australia you’re better off taking a reusable water bottle with you and refilling whenever you have the chance. Bottled water isn’t expensive but when you add them all it can save you a fair bit.

Power bank :   Yes I spend too much time on my phone, there’s no denying that. That’s why I always travel with a power bank.

I like to say it’s my job to be on my phone but really, when a sunset looks as good as the one at the Twelve Apostles did, you can’t help but take all the photos, boomerangs and videos that battery will allow.

Gibson Steps seen from the beach

Final thoughts on my Great Ocean Road self drive itinerary

Have you been on a road trip on the Great Ocean Road? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

The Great Ocean Road is an iconic road trip, similar to doing a Road to Hana one day itinerary . It’s one of those bucket list destinations. For me, seeing the sunset at the Twelve Apostles was a bucket list dream come true.

Alongside Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef , it’s one of those sights I just had to see in Australia.

If you’ve done other stops on the Great Ocean Road that I haven’t included let me know, I’d love to expand this list with all the must-see spots on the Great Ocean Road.

This is the exact 2-day itinerary that we followed on our trip, I hope you will find it useful in planning your own Great Ocean Road driving itinerary.

If you’re looking for more travel inspiration for weekends away from Melbourne, check out the best things to do in Echuca .

Looking for more Australia travel inspiration? Check out these guides:

• Discover the most beautiful walk in Sydney!
• Are these the prettiest rock pools in Australia?
• How to spend 3 days in Fraser Island
• The ultimate Sydney 3-day itinerary
• The most beautiful spots in Sydney
• Day tour to Blue Mountains from Sydney
• Daintree Rainforest tour from Cairns
• Is doing a day trip to the Whitsundays worth it?
• The ultimate Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary
• 7 epic Cairns day trips
• Discover the Australian outback
• What to pack for a trip to the Australian outback

Enjoyed reading my Great Ocean Road 2-day driving itinerary? Pin it!

Abbie Evans

Wednesday 21st of November 2018

Some great advice and notes. Thank you for the tips :) - made planning my trip so much easier!

Saturday 24th of November 2018

Thanks for the comment, I'm glad you found it useful! :)

Chloe Southern

Friday 9th of November 2018

Thank you! I have wrote lots of notes for our road trip! Will report back on how we get on!

Thanks, glad you found it useful! Let me know how you find it! :)

Backpacking Australia ~ DIVE.in

Thursday 13th of September 2018

[…] to find work in Australia. One of the most scenic routes between the two cities would be via the Great Ocean Road, one of the most popular journeys tourists take Down Under. Just ensure you set aside a few days […]

Bucket List Seekers

Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Australia , Oceania , Road Trips , Travel Itineraries , Victoria · July 18, 2018

Driving the Great Ocean Road Itinerary & Road Trip Guide

Are you planning on driving the Great Ocean Road soon? This iconic road trip is one of the top things to do in Australia and we’ve got the ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary for you to follow along and help you plan your own self-drive trip!

We’ve been on some pretty epic road trips around the world . But, the Great Ocean Road drive would have to be one of the most stunning road trips in the world , which makes it perfect for couples .

You’ve most likely heard of the 12 Apostles? It’s one of the most iconic rock formations in the world . The scenery is somewhat similar to that of the Algarve Coast in Portugal , with tall sandstone stacks towering out from the crashing waves below.

The 12 Apostles is undoubtedly the main attraction on the Great Ocean Road itinerary, but there is actually so much more to see along the Great Ocean Road Drive. From rugged coastal hikes, and amazing foodie finds, to iconic surf breaks, towering redwood forests, and gorgeous waterfalls.

Whether you have 1, 2, or 3 days to spend driving the Great Ocean Road – this road trip guide details everything you need to know before you leave home.

Here is the perfect great ocean Road itinerary to help you plan your trip!

Planning a holiday in Australia right now? Here are 150 Australia Bucket List experiences to tick off!

No time to read this now? Pin it for later!

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In This Post:

The Great Ocean Road Drive Starting Point

The Great Ocean Road drive starts at the town of Torquay, about 2 hours drive south-west of Melbourne. The road continues for 244 kilometers westward, finishing at the town of Allansford, near Port Fairy.  

There are two ways of accessing the Great Ocean Road attractions – either from Melbourne or from Adelaide. The latter is a much longer route through remote parts of Australia that would require a lot more time to complete. For this road trip guide, we are going to focus on the most popular route to access the Great Ocean Road drive – from Melbourne.

Above: View of the Great Ocean Road coastline from Teddy’s Lookout .

Arriving into Melbourne Airport

To access the Great Ocean Road drive, we recommend flying to Melbourne airport. However, there are actually two airports in Melbourne:

• Tullamarine Airport – The main domestic and International airport closest to Melbourne city, and serviced by most airlines, including Qantas, Virgin, and Jetstar. If you plan to spend a few days exploring Melbourne before embarking on the Great Ocean Road itinerary, then I would recommend arriving at Tullamarine airport.
• Avalon Airport – The other airport near Melbourne, is smaller and serviced only by a handful of airlines, such as Jetstar Airways. Avalon Airport is actually closer to the start of the Great Ocean Road drive, but further away from Melbourne city.  

Whilst I prefer to fly into Tullamarine with Virgin Australia because I have gold status with them, Jetstar is a budget alternative and usually offers very low airfares by comparison – but don’t forget to take into account the extra fees you’ll have to pay on Jetstar, such as baggage and seat allocation fees – these are usually included on Virgin Australia.  

You can search and compare all airfares to Melbourne using Skyscanner here , but be sure to search for Melbourne (All Airports) so you can compare flights into both Tullamarine and Avalon airports.  

Related Post: 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia to Add to Your Bucket List

Above: The largest of the 12 Apostles still standing today.

Once you arrive in Melbourne, you’ll have two options to get to the Great Ocean Road – either a pre-organised Great Ocean Road day tour or a self-drive road trip. We always recommend self-drive, as it gives you the most flexibility to go at your own pace and set your own itinerary.  

The Great Ocean Road Itinerary Options

Option 1 – join a day tour from melbourne.

It’s possible to join a Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne. This usually departs very early in the morning and returns late in the evening, you’ll also have limited time to spend at each of the Great Ocean Road attractions. Also, you won’t get to see ALL of the Great Ocean Road highlights on a day tour (including the hidden gems), as you’ll be restricted to the itinerary set by the tour company. But if you only have limited time and are determined not to miss this stunning part of Australia, then we recommend this Great Ocean Road reverse experience to avoid the crowds, or the 12 Apostles at Sunset tour .

Pro Tip:   The major Great Ocean Road attractions, including the 12 Apostles, are located around 4 hours drive from Melbourne city.

Option 2 – Self-Drive Itinerary

If you decide to do the Great Ocean Road self-drive option, you can pick up a rental car from either Melbourne or Avalon airports. Just be aware that Avalon is much smaller and there are limited car hire options.

It’s also possible to collect your rental car from Melbourne city. Search and compare prices from different car rental companies using Rentalcars.com .

Above: Surfers at Lorne Beach at sunset .

Best Time to Drive the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but there are a few things to consider when planning your visit.

Peak Season

Peak season along the Great Ocean Road occurs during summer (December through February) when you can take advantage of warmer-weather activities, such as swimming and surfing. But these months attract, not only a throng of tourists but also half of Melbourne as families flock to the towns along the coast for the summer holidays. You’ll need to book accommodation well in advance during this time.

The Winter Months

The winter months of June through to August offer an escape from the heat and crowds and many people think it to be the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road, as accommodation options are easier to come by.

The Shoulder Seasons

As always, shoulder season is usually my favourite time to visit a place as the crowds are still small and the weather is mild, and much more bearable. The Great Ocean Road is much the same, which is the reason I recommend this as the best time to visit.

We planned our Great Ocean Road trip in late April, which is Autumn (March to May). The weather was brisk in the morning and we needed a jacket when visiting the 12 Apostles at sunrise, but the temperature was very pleasant during the day – think jeans and t-shirt weather.  

Springtime is also lovely as the waterfalls experience peak run-off and wildflowers begin to bloom along the coastline.

Related Post: The Perfect Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary for One Week

Above: Walking along the Pier at Lorne .

The Perfect Great Ocean Road Self Drive Itinerary

The Great Ocean Road drive might be one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne, however, if you’re looking to do the self-drive option, we highly recommend you plan at least a 2 day Great Ocean Road Itinerary . This should allow enough time for the long drive from Melbourne (around 4 hours) and ensure you get to experience all the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road, including seeing the 12 Apostles at both sunrise and sunset!

Below, we’ve listed three options for your self-drive Great Ocean Road road trip – including 1, 2, and 3-day itineraries.

1 Day Itinerary

This option will require you to spend a night in Melbourne and collect your rental car the day before your road trip.  

Make an early start and head directly towards the 12 Apostles. Aim to arrive around sunrise (or soon after) to avoid the tourist buses that begin to arrive around 9 am. Take the inland road, which should have you arriving at the 12 Apostles in around 3 hours. The coast road is very windy and takes a lot longer.

After spending an hour or so at the 12 Apostles, continue west towards the other Great Ocean Road attractions – including Loch Ard Gorge, The Arch, London Bridge, and The Grotto. Grab some lunch in the town of Port Campbell, before heading east along the Great Ocean Road back towards Melbourne. In the afternoon, you could explore Cape Otway or some of the attractions around Lorne, depending on time, before arriving back in Melbourne in the evening.

Related Post: Where to Find the Best Laneways in Melbourne

Above: The lookout at The Arch along the Great Ocean Road .

2 Day Itinerary

On the first day of your road trip, collect your rental car from Melbourne city, or the airport and spend the day leisurely driving along the Great Ocean Road coastline. If you’re flying into Melbourne, be sure to get an early flight!  

Stop at the iconic Bell’s Beach and Airy’s Inlet along the way. Grab a bite to eat for lunch in Torquay or Lorne – see our recommendations below. Then spend the afternoon exploring Lorne Township, Teddy’s Lookout, and Apollo Bay. But don’t lose track of time – plan to finish up the first day with sunset at Gibson Steps. Spend the night somewhere near the 12 Apostles .

On day two, plan to arrive at the 12 Apostles at sunrise to beat the crowds. Then continue your drive west towards the other Great Ocean Road attractions – including Loch Ard Gorge, The Arch, London Bridge, and The Grotto. Grab some lunch in the town of Port Campbell, before heading back east along the Great Ocean Road towards Melbourne.  

In the afternoon, make a stop at Cape Otway Lightstation and admire the stunning Redwood Forest at Great Otway National Park. Then, take the inland road for a faster route back to Melbourne.

3 Day Itinerary

This option will allow you to see many of the Great Ocean Road attractions at a much more leisurely pace. On the first day, make your way from Melbourne to Lorne. Take your time and spend the day exploring Torquay, Bell’s Beach, Airey’s Inlet, and Lorne. Book some accommodation in Lorne or Apollo Bay for the evening.

Spend day two exploring the Great Ocean Road hinterland and check out the many local artisan food producers , as you make your way towards the 12 Apostles. Spend your second night near the 12 Apostles .  

Spend day three exploring the main Great Ocean Road attractions, starting with the 12 Apostles at sunrise to beat the crowds. Continue your drive west towards Loch Ard Gorge, The Arch, London Bridge, and The Grotto. Then head back east along the Great Ocean Road towards Melbourne, making a pitstop at Cape Otway Lightstation before arriving back in Melbourne in the late afternoon.

Above: View of the 12 Apostles at sunrise .

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

There are plenty of affordable luxury accommodation options along the Great Ocean Road, including hotels, Airbnb rentals, and luxury holiday homes. If you’re planning to do this trip by any other means than luxury, then I would highly recommend renting a campervan or motorhome . There are many great campgrounds along the Great Ocean Road, many with spectacular ocean views.

Accommodation Near the 12 Apostles

Given that the 12 Apostles is the star attraction along the Great Ocean Road drive, this is the best place to stay, especially if you plan to follow our itinerary. However, given the remoteness of this area, there are limited accommodation options in this area. Be sure to book early if you plan on visiting during peak season.

Anchors Port Campbell – Beautiful cottages on 30 acres of private land with free bike rental and a Chinese massage room.

Port O’Call Motel – A cute little refurbished motel with basic rooms and only a 5-minutes drive to the 12 Apostles.

Rotten Point House – A holiday home with 4 bedrooms and spectacular ocean views. Great for families and groups.

View and book additional Great Ocean Road Accommodation options on Booking.com | Airbnb | Stayz

Accommodation Near Lorne or Apollo Bay

The township of Lorne is located about 2 hours drive southwest of Melbourne, on the Great Ocean Road. It’s the summer vacation destination of choice of many wealthy Melbournites and home to some amazing vacation rental houses dotted along the coastline. Lorne is located near the start of the Great Ocean Road drive and is a perfect place to set up a base for your 2-day Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Lorne Hotel – Newly renovated apartments right across the road from Lorne Beach.

Seafarers Getaway – located on a hill overlooking the ocean with direct access to the beach, near Apollo Bay.

Beeches by the Sea – Beautiful self-contained villas with full kitchen facilities. Great for families or groups.

Manta Ray One – A beachfront holiday home in Apollo Bay with 3-bedrooms. Great for families or groups

Accommodation in Melbourne

If you are planning to do a day trip from Melbourne, here are some great affordable luxury hotels in the city that we love and recommend:

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto  – A stylish and sophisticated hotel built inside an old Victorian building – this is my favorite place to stay in Melbourne!

QT Melbourne – A stylish design hotel located in the heart of Melbourne city.

Hotel Lindrum – A stunning boutique accommodation close to some of Melbourne’s famous laneways .

NOTEL – Stay in a unique vintage Airstream trailer located on a rooftop in Melbourne!

Things To Do on the Great Ocean Road

There are so many things to do on the Great Ocean Road, however, we’ve narrowed our list down to 10 of the best attractions that can be easily experienced during a 2 day Great Ocean Road Itinerary. If you plan on doing a day trip from Melbourne, you probably won’t get enough time to experience all the following Great Ocean Road highlights. I would suggest picking 5 or 6 highlights.

Bells Beach

Bells Beach is iconic in the surfing world. As the host of the annual Rip Curl Pro, you simply can’t drive past without stopping to check out the swell. Most people wouldn’t dare tackle the sheer size of the waves here, let alone brave the freezing cold Antarctic waters. But it’s a beautiful place to stop for a look.

Above: A surfer carving it up at the iconic Bell’s Beach .

Aireys Inlet

If you grew up in Australia in the ’90s, you’ll probably recognise the lighthouse at Airey’s Inlet as the set of the popular kid’s TV series, Round the Twist. If you didn’t grow up in Australia in the ’90s, this place is still worth a visit. The view from the top of the lighthouse is pretty amazing. There are also some great cafes nearby. We stopped for lunch at Onda Food House and it was excellent!

Lorne Township

Lorne is a holiday favourite amongst Melbournians. This beautiful little seaside town is around halfway between Melbourne and the Twelve Apostles. During the summer, Lorne is buzzing with markets, galleries, festivals, and carloads of holidaymakers flocking to Lorne’s beautiful beaches. There are so many things to do in Lorne , you’ll want to stay a little longer!

Above: The pathway on the way to Teddy’s Lookout .

Teddy’s Lookout

My nephew’s name is Teddy, so there was no way we were not going to stop here. And it didn’t disappoint. Teddy’s Lookout is within walking distance from the centre of Lorne town. But be prepared for a steep uphill walk. The view from the top makes for a very rewarding expedition. It’s also possible to drive up to the lookout if you really don’t feel like walking.

Left to right: Looking towards Cape Otway Lightstation; A field of dead gum trees along the drive to Cape Otway .

Cape Otway Lightstation

You’ll need to take a 35-minute detour off the Great Ocean Road drive to get to Cape Otway Lightstation. The oldest working lighthouse in mainland Australia. Entry to the Lighthouse costs around $20 per person, but you can save $3 by pre-booking online. But walking around the grounds and climbing up the lighthouse itself was actually pretty cool. Be sure to allow at least an hour to experience the history of the Cape Otway Lighthouse. The drive into the lighthouse is also spectacular, as you’ll pass through a beautiful Redwood forest with some of the tallest trees I’ve ever seen!  You can even spend the night at the Lightkeeper’s cottage – book here !

Pro Tip:   Whilst Cape Otway Lightstation is one of the Great Ocean Road trip highlights, the detour plus time to walk to the lighthouse will add an extra few hours to your trip. If you’re only doing a day trip from Melbourne, I would recommend skipping this.

Above: The view towards Cape Otway from Gibson Steps at sunrise .

Gibson Steps

This is the first port of call to marvel at the massive stacks that have made the Great Ocean Road so famous. The two stacks that you’ll see from Gibson Steps are actually not considered part of the 12 apostles but are spectacular nonetheless. The steps carved into the cliff allow access to the beach.

Pro Tip: Sunset from Gibson Steps is spectacular. You can park at the 12 Apostles car park and access the Gibson Steps via a 1.1km walking track.

Above: View towards the 12 Apostles. Note: you can no longer access this spot as you must stick to the constructed walkways in order to protect the native flora .

The 12 Apostles

After a 4-hour drive from Melbourne, you’ll finally make it to the main attraction. The Twelve Apostles is one of the most famous landmarks in Australia .

The 12 Apostles is the most popular Great Ocean Road attraction and it gets very busy throughout the day! The 12 Apostles car park was already half-full before sunrise. We drove from Melbourne the day before and timed our arrival here for sunrise. It was definitely worth the early start. And by the time we left an hour later, busloads of tourists on a day tour from Melbourne had begun to arrive.

It’s free to visit the 12 Apostles and there is a visitors centre located just near the car park.

Words cannot describe the beauty of these amazing rock formations. All I can say is, visit soon! The stacks are slowly being eroded away and disappearing into the sea. There are only eight of the original twelve still standing today.

Pro Tip: It is illegal to stop or park along the Great Ocean Road itself. Keep this in mind. The area is regularly patrolled. The authorities have built designated carpark and under-road walkways so tourists don’t have to cross the busy road. In spite of this, many tourists ignore the marked signs and some have been hit by cars while stopping to take photos or wander across the road. Don’t risk it!

Left to right: View of Loch Ard Gorge from above near the carpark; View of the gorge from the beach .

Loch Ard Gorge

Just 3-minutes drive west of the 12 Apostles stands Loch Ard Gorge. The Loch Ard Gorge is another well-known Great Ocean Road highlight and has a very fascinating history. In 1878, a ship named Loch Ard sailed from the UK, bound for Melbourne. The ship ran aground on nearby Muttonbird Island. Only two of the fifty-four passengers survived. They washed ashore and were rescued by local farmers.  

Back in 2009, an arch that joined the two rock pillars over the gorge, crumbled. The two pillars still standing (above) have been affectionately named Tom and Eva, after the two survivors of the shipwreck.

Above: View of The Arch from the coastal walkway .

The next stop along the Great Ocean Road is a spectacular formation called The Arch. The viewing platform is a short walk from the carpark. This is an amazing spot to stand and watch the ferocious waves crashing against the rugged coastline.  

Above: The London Bridge. The archway that used to be connected to the mainland (to the left) is now gone.

London Bridge

Heading further west along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll come to one of the most spectacular formations, the London Bridge (otherwise known as the London Arch). The London Bridge (above) used to feature a double archway, connected to the mainland, which visitors could walk across. But in 1990, heavy erosion caused the archway closest to the mainland to collapse, leaving two visitors stranded on ‘the island’. They had to be rescued by helicopter. Tiny fairy penguins can often be seen from this point.

Read Next: The Ultimate World Travel Bucket List – 150+ Places to See Before You Die

Above: Two eroded stacks as seen from the Great Ocean Road coastal walkway

Additional Great Ocean Road Attractions

There are so many things to do on the Great Ocean Road, but we didn’t get time to explore everything we wanted to. Some other Great Ocean Road attractions that were recommended to us by other travellers were:

• Port Campbell
• Beauchamp Falls
• The Treetop Walk at Otway Fly
• Hopetoun Falls
• Bay of Martyrs
• Port Fairy Lighthouse

Feeling Inspired? Here are 10 Bucket List Places to Visit around the world this year!

Planning to explore more of Australia? Read on for inspiration:

• The Ultimate Australia Bucket List
• 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia
• 15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts
• 15 Weekend Getaways from Sydney
• 13 Romantic Weekend Getaways in Victoria
• 8 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Perth for Couples
• 15 Best Weekend Trips from Brisbane
• 9 Places for a Romantic Weekend Getaway in Tasmania
• Ultimate 6 Day Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Are you planning a Great Ocean Road trip and have any questions? Or can you recommend any other things to do on a 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary? Leave us a comment below.

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

• Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
• Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
• HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
• Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
• Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
• Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
• Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
• Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

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About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

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